The Nashville Fire Department (NFD) and the IAFF Local 140 Firefighters Union joined forces to commemorate a significant milestone in the Metro Nashville Davidson County's history - 50 years of exceptional Emergency Medical Service (EMS).
A special gala at the Music City Center provided an opportunity for reflection on the remarkable journey of NFD EMS, honoring current and former employees, and setting sights on a promising future.
Since its start in 1974, the NFD EMS has been at the forefront of providing life-saving care to the residents and visitors of Nashville-Davidson County.
The past 50 years has been 5 decades of change and growth.
The first month of operations EMS made 1,200 calls for service. In the month of October 2024 our EMS Division made more than 14,000 EMS calls for service.
NFD EMS Division began with just 10 medic units. The EMS Division now has 34 full-time Advanced Life Support Ambulances staffed by 216 Paramedics and 166 Advanced Emergency Medical Technicians.
As of 2024 the division has a total of 436 personnel when adding in EMS Captains, EMS Medical Instructors and EMS Special Operations Personnel.
NFD and Nashville Office of Emergency Management Director Chief Williams Swann expressed his gratitude for everyone who has dedicated their lives to helping others.
"Emergency Medical Service is a calling so many wonderful people have answered since 1974 in Metro Nashville Davidson County," he said. "I thank all these dedicated professionals for their dedication and look forward to 50 more years of being 'In Service for Life.'"
Metro Nashville -Davidson County Mayor Freddie O'Connell presented a proclamation during the event commemorating Nashville Fire EMS' 50th Anniversary.
The evening was filled with heartfelt speeches along with nostalgic moments as current and former employees shared their memories. The EMS Gala also showcased the evolution of EMS technology and techniques over the years, highlighting the department's continuous efforts to stay at the forefront of medical advancements.
During the event the department paid special recognition to the last serving EMS member from the original first class of hires. AEMT Bill Nolen started with the EMS Division on November 1, 1974. He marks his 50th year of service on Friday.
Looking ahead, the Nashville Fire EMS remains committed to enhancing its services and ensuring the highest level of care for the community. With a focus on training, innovation, and collaboration, the department aims to further strengthen its position as a leader in emergency medical services.
WKRN News 2's Good Morning Nashville Meteorologist Marcus Bagwell Jr. served as Emcee for the event. His father Marcus Bagwell Sr. is a long-time member of the NFD EMS Division.
As the city looks back on five decades of exceptional emergency medical service, it also looks forward to a future filled with continued dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to saving lives.
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