The Cherokee Nation has recognized several of its Emergency Medical Services employees for outstanding performance during two emergency dispatches. Brandon Squirrel of Salina, Vince Osburn of Oaks, Nathan Christie of Glenpool, Charles Cole of Peggs, Courtney Cooper of Tulsa, Tina Smith, Carl McGaugh and Joe Caviness were awarded code save pins and certificates of recognition for performing at an exceptional level.

Cooper, McGaugh, Cole, Smith and Christie recently responded to a cardiac arrest call. When the paramedics arrived the patient had no pulse and had stopped breathing for several minutes. The first responders used their knowledge and training to revive the patient and were able to safely transport her to a hospital where she was able to recover.

Christie said first responders are the most critical component to saving someone’s life and they are often overlooked.    

“In our job we don’t get as much recognition as we should,” said Christie. “It feels good when we are recognized for something we did right and it’s very appreciated.”

Osburn and Squirrel were on their way to another call when they encountered a car that had just run off the road and caught fire. Both victims were unconscious and one was stuck in the blazing car. Compelled to act, they dispatched another ambulance to the less serious call and rushed to help the victims from the car. The first responders were able to safely remove both people from the vehicle, put out the fire and transport them to a hospital where they later recovered.  

“Cherokee Nation EMS is very fortunate to have personnel that are not only skilled but are also very passionate about providing true community service,” said Jimmy Summerlin, Cherokee Nation EMS director. “Their dedication makes a difference in the daily lives of those we serve. EMS personnel rarely receive recognition for activities that are above and beyond the call of duty. We are very proud of our staff and the recognition of their efforts.”

Cherokee Nation Emergency Medical Services is a state-licensed paramedic level ambulance service owned and operated by the tribe.  

CNEMS, which consists of ambulance services, communications and training, serves people in Cherokee, southern Delaware, northern Sequoyah and western Adair counties. It is the first EMS program in Oklahoma to receive the prestigious Commission on the Accreditation of Ambulance Services certification and the first tribal EMS service in the U.S. to be certified by CAAS.