The Tidewater Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Council Inc. celebrated the regional EMS awards June 4 at Harbor Park Stadium in Norfolk. The council presented top honors to individuals who were considered for their remarkable contributions to the EMS field.

The late Willie “Melvin” Smith of the Nansemond-Suffolk Volunteer Rescue Squad was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Smith died on May 1.

“It is our privilege to recognize some of the best EMS responders, instructors, dispatchers, nurses and agencies in the Tidewater region,” said Jim Chandler, executive director of the Tidewater EMS Council Inc. “EMS is a vital part of health care, public health and public safety. The public counts on EMS to help them in their worst moments, and we’re proud to have some of the best EMS providers right here in Tidewater.”

Recipients of this year’s regional awards have the chance to compete for the prestigious 2017 Governor’s EMS Awards, which will be announced Nov. 11 at the Virginia EMS Symposium’s Annual Awards Ceremony in Norfolk.

“It is so important that we recognize and honor the men and women who serve on the front line of our health care system,” said Gary Brown, director of the Virginia Office of EMS. “Their commitment to being ready at a moment’s notice to protect and provide quality prehospital care warrants the utmost respect and appreciation.”