Strissel among emergency medical services responders honored by state

Press release

Lowell Strissel of Hill County Ambulance was among those honored in Helena Wednesday in a ceremony for Montana Emergency Medical Services Awards Ceremony at the Capitol Rotunda.

Gov. Greg Gianforte and Department of Public Health and Human Services Director Charlie Brereton honored the emergency services personnel during the awards ceremony.

"From offering community support to responding to emergencies, our EMS providers across Montana work around the clock to deliver life-saving care to Montanans in need," Gianforte said. "Today, and every day, we thank these professionals and their families for their sacrifice and commitment to care."

Strissel, who was nominated by Hill County Public Health Nurse Bridget Kallenberger, a lead for Hill County, received the Volunteer EMS Provider of the Year Award. The award honors a volunteer EMS provider who is exemplary in his/her quality of patient care and dedication to their community.

"Lowell is the type of volunteer who, if he sees a need and he has the skills or ability to do it, he will take care of it and expects no recognition," Kallenberge said. "He has been a mentor to new EMTs, passing on his knowledge and experience to the next generation of volunteers.

"The Volunteer of the Year Award recognizes the selfless contributions of individuals who have made a significant impact on their community through their volunteer work," Kallenberger added. "In my opinion, Lowell is the definition of this and is very deserving of the EMS Volunteer Provider of the Year Award."

Other emergency service providers, nominated by their peers, received:

Career EMS Career Provider of the Year Award, Steve Emerson, Big Sky Ski Patrol, Gallatin Gateway Volunteer Fire Department.

EMS Service of the Year Award, Madison Valley Ambulance Service, Ennis.

911 Dispatcher of the Year Award, Brandon Skogen of the City of Great Falls/Cascade County Emergency Communication Center.

EMS Supporter of the Year Award, Garnee Erickson of Glendive.

The EMS for Children Supporter Award, the Hinsdale Ambulance Service.