OWL’s EMS History

Women Build the Foundation for OWL VFD’s Emergency Medical Services

As we celebrate EMS Week, it’s fitting that we share our own history. It was women who played a big role in establishing our emergency medical services for the community.

In the early 1970s, cardiac techs were assigned to stations in Prince William County, but they needed a driver during daytime hours. At the time, OWL’s members were all men, and they worked during the day. Several members of OWL’s Women’s Auxiliary, who were available during daytime hours, answered the call for help.

Meeting minutes dated July 4, 1972, state, “The women were put to the test with a surprise fake accident and did a very good job. The Chief (Roger T. Furr) stated that he is in favor of the women 100%. After a lengthy discussion, a motion made by Mr. Harding, second by Mr. Wilder, vote carried. Women will run rescue in OWL.“

On October 6, 1972, women were welcomed to serve as operational members. They attended an American Red Cross basic first aid class and served as Ambulance drivers for the cardiac techs. While on-call, they took the ambulance home, and a dispatcher would reach them by calling their home phone number.

Artie Frederick

Artie Frederick, one of the pioneering women who became an operational member of OWL, shared her experience: “It was a true community effort. If you were still on a call when your children came home from school, a neighbor would step in to provide care until you got home.” This personal touch highlights the camaraderie and support that were integral to their journey.

The women were referred to as “Aides.” When Fort Belvoir’s DeWitt Army Hospital began offering EMT classes, it was women who became some of OWL’s first EMTs.