GATLINBURG – Rutherford County Emergency Medical Services (RCEMS) has been recognized as the recipient of the prestigious Bob Thomas ALS Service Award at the 2025 TASA Mid-Winter Leadership Conference. This award acknowledges excellence in prehospital advanced life support (ALS) services.

Since its establishment in 1972, RCEMS has been a cornerstone of emergency medical care, providing compassionate and high-quality EMS services across 619 square miles. The department responds to approximately 42,000 calls annually, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to safety, innovation, and professionalism.

Brent Carter with RCEMS on WGNS' Rutherford Issues said this award especially recognizes the dedicated paramedics and EMTs:

RCEMS’s dedication to education, leadership culture, and innovative practices has consistently met the growing needs of the community. The recognition reflects the skill, dedication, and professionalism of its paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs), who continuously set a high standard for prehospital care in Tennessee.

As the 2025 recipient of the Bob Thomas ALS Service Award, Rutherford County EMS has solidified its place as a leader in emergency medical services. This honor highlights the organization’s forward-thinking strategies and commitment to public health and safety.