Erik Smith, 2021 New EMS Crew Member of the Year

At our annual awards, Erik Smith was the recipient of the New EMS Crew Member of the Year award.

When Smith was looking for a way to give back to the community, he decided to join OWL VFD. He’s often seen helping to cover shifts for other members, is always willing to train, and takes initiative to assist new members with learning what equipment we have on our ambulances, what it is used for, and where it is located on the unit. 

During training, Smith volunteers to be the patient, which means allowing others to practice their back boarding skills, using a stair chair, and even doing finger sticks for blood sugar testing. This can sometimes provide interesting results, because of Smith’s enjoyment of Oreo cookies and hot chocolate. 

Smith’s accomplishments over the last year have not only strengthened the department but demonstrated his desire to learn and serve the community while earning the respect of other members.

Smith’s certifications include:

•National Registry of EMTs (Basic)

•Virginia State EMT-Basic

•Emergency Vehicle Operator I and II

•OWL Ambulance Driver

•Basic Life Support Protocols

•Operational Medical Director’s Endorsement

This past winter he started training as a Snow Plow Operator. He is currently training as an Ambulance Driver Trainer and Lead EMT.