Pictured (L-R)—Heidi Ball, Maddie Bruggeman, Tyler Knight, Dillon Feld, Nick Schroeder, Michael “Erky” Schulze, and an IEMSA representative.
Glidden’s first responder team has been recognized as the 2024 Iowa Emergency Medical Services Association (IEMSA) Volunteer Service of the Year. Kenneth Hansen, the Carroll County Ambulance Service training officer, penned the nomination letter and praised the team’s quick response times, skilled care, and commitment to continuous EMS education. Glidden has a population of less than 1,200 and relies on this 11-member team to respond to over 100 emergency calls annually. Hansen says in the nomination, “It’s had to prove someone’s worth with words, but this team of men and women continually show up and answer the call. The care they provided is absolutely outstanding, and the number of neurologically intact code saves is tremendous for such a small community. In a world where EMS volunteers are dwindling, Glidden continues to thrive. From recruiting top-notch individuals who believe in the system to their commitment to EMS education, Glidden checks all the boxes.” In addition to emergency response, the team frequently volunteers in the community by offering CPR training, supporting local school events, and assisting with public safety initiatives. The Glidden First Responders were presented the 2024 Volunteer Service of the Year Award during the annual IEMSA conference on Saturday in Des Moines.
