DARKE COUNTY – Wayne HealthCare presented 11 individuals with a certificate of recognition and a star of life lapel pin for their heroic actions involving a male patient who suffered from cardiac arrest.
The presentation took place at the December 2, EMS Chiefs Association Meeting. EMS Coordinator for Wayne HealthCare, Jeff Bailey, explained that most people who suffer a cardiac arrest outside of a hospital do not have good outcomes. However, on August 2, 2025, these eleven individuals all contributed to beating those odds. Due to their actions, this patient survived and has since been discharged from hospital care.
Bailey stated, “People like these men and women do not generally get into public safety for fame and recognition, but to give back to their community. Public safety can be a very difficult and, at times, thankless profession, but one they come back to day in and day out, giving of themselves despite the adversities they may encounter. Wayne HealthCare likes to recognize these unsung heroes who provide for the safety and well-being of our local communities every day.”
Bailey went on to explain that the entire team involved played an important role in the lifesaving measures. It began with a 911 call where dispatchers on duty began coaching medical directions to the caller while dispatching law enforcement and EMS. Darke County Sheriff Deputies and EMS Units then responded and were able to continue lifesaving measures and transport the patient to the hospital.
The team involved in this save was: Dispatcher Robert “Scoob” Cook, Dispatcher Josh Doolin, Dispatcher Taylor Parton, Deputy Jamie Joseph, Deputy Nolan Curtis, Deputy Sgt. Chris Clark, EMT Jared Elliot, EMT Gary Forte, Paramedic Mike Honeyman, EMT David Grilliot, and EMT Christian Savage. These men and women represent the Darke County Sheriff’s Department, Gettysburg Rural Fire Department, Greenville Township Emergency Service, and an individual first responder.
Darke County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Randy Linkous was in attendance to see his deputies receive this award. Linkous shared his feelings of pride in his team, noting that their efforts and their willingness to put themselves out in front of the community is part of what makes them exceptional. Also in attendance was Assistant Chief of Greenville Township Fire/Rescue and Darke County EMS Chiefs Association Treasurer, Brian Phillips.
Phillips expressed his thoughts on the evening, “There were many individuals that day who played a vital role in his survival. We are fortunate here in Darke County to have such strong teamwork among our collaborating agencies. First Responders are routinely exposed to difficult and tragic situations, which can be challenging. When you get to witness a positive outcome, it provides a meaningful sense of fulfillment.”
The Darke County EMS Chiefs Association is made up of all the EMS Chiefs in the county. They meet quarterly throughout the year to discuss old and new business relevant to the profession.
