As Director of EMS, Mr. Helferich holds the rank of Colonel and is responsible for the overall operations of the department, provides oversight to all EMS divisions, develops budgetary planning & policies, identifies and plans long and short-term departmental goals, and is the primary political liasion for the EMS Department to various local, regional and state EMS governing agencies.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (1995 & 2000), Honorable Service Medal (2003 & 2007), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2002), Ready Commendation (2007), Unit Unit CItation Medal (2009)
Memberships & Activities: Member of the Executive Board of KEMSA, President of KEMSA Administrator's Society (2005), KS EMS Region III Executive Board Member, Kansas EMS Instructor Development Task Force, Kansas EMS Service Director Development Task Force, Charter Member KS EMS Region III MERGe Team.
Biography: Col. Helferich began his EMS career and was initially certified as an EMT in 1980. He went on to obtain certification as an EMT-I and then an MICT in 1984. Over the years, Grant has served as a street level paramedic, flight paramedic, street supervisor, assistant administrator and now, Director. Grant is the longest serving Director in the history of Butler County EMS, and one of the longest serving department directors in the State of Kansas.
As the Operations Division Coordinator, Maj. Russell is tasked with department response coordination (emergency & special events), operational policy development and oversight, human resources, scheduling, project management, the oversight of BCEMS online resources, & the privacy/HIPAA compliance programs of the department.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2002, 2004, 2006, & 2007), Exceptional Duty Medal (2002 & 2005), Honorable Service Medal (2002, 2003, 2005, & 2007), Academic Attainment Medal (2002 & 2010), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2002), & Unit Citation Medal (2009).
Memberships & Activities: KEMSA Member, Vice-President of KEMSA Board of Directors, MERGe Team Member, Member of the National EMS Management Association, Member of the National Association of EMS Educators, Cowley College EMS Education Advisory Board, and Member of the Hugo Wall Society.
Biography: Brandon has been involved in EMS for over 15 years having obtained his EMT in 1993. He worked with both volunteer and paid EMS agencies as a street technician and supervisor before coming to work for BCEMS in 2001. Brandon completed his Masters Degree in Public Administration at the Hugo Wall School of Public and Urban Affairs at Wichita State University in May of 2010.
As the Clinical Division Coordinator, Capt. Kohls oversees all aspects of the medical care, medical protocols, and clinical quality assurance programs of the department. In addition, Capt. Kohls coordinates the educational offerings of Butler County EMS, as well as works with area physicians, first response agencies, and hospitals to ensure that BCEMS is always providing the best medical care to our patients and that all of our technicians are equipment with the knowledge and skills necessary to operate in the pre-hospital environment.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2003, 2007, & 2 awards in 2005), Exceptional Duty Medal (2005), Honorable Service Medal (2007, & 2 awards in 2006), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2005), & Veteran Service (U.S. Navy) Medal (2007), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
Memberships & Activities: Kansas EMS Region III Board of Directors, MERGe Team Member, KEMSA Member, NREMT Member, NAEMSE Member & Butler County Rescue Squad Member.
Biography: Capt. Kohls began his EMS career and was initially certified as an EMT in 1998. He went on to obtain certification as an EMT-I/D in 1999, and then as an MICT in 2000. Over the years, Darrel has served not only as a street paramedic, but prior to his promotion to his current position, was a BCEMS street Captain/Shift Supervisor for several years. Capt. Kohls will be completing his Bachelor's Degree in Human Resource Management in 2010. Darrel is married and has three sons.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (1998), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2002), Academic Attainment Medal (2002), Ready Commendation (2007), Unit Citation Medal (2009)
Memberships & Activities: DMSU Member
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Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2005 & 2009), Exemplary Volunteer Service Medal (2003), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2005), Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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**********A-SHIFT**********
Captain Charles is the "A-Shift" supervisor for Butler County EMS. As a Captain, Larry oversees and coordinates the daily activities for A-Shift personnel and coordinates the department's fleet management & maintenance programs. In addition he is involved with quality assurance, education/training, and the hiring & orientation of new employees.
Department Awards: EMS Medal of Honor (2000-for knowingly risking himself during actions that saved the life of another), Lifesaving Medal (1997, 1998, 2007, 2009, & 2 awards in 2006), Exceptional Duty Medal (2005), Honorable Service Medal (2005), Academic Attainment Medal (2002), Tactical Medic Service Medal (2004), Field Delivery Award (2002), Ready Commendation (2007), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
Memberships & Activities: Butler County Rescue Squad, Butler County EMS Training Division, & KEMSA Member.
Biography: Capt. Charles began his EMS career and was initially certified as an EMT in 1989. He went on to obtain certification as an EMT-I in 1991, and then as an MICT in 1992. Over the years, Larry has served as a street level paramedic, flight paramedic, and now street supervisor. Capt. Charles is a senior member of the Butler County Rescue Squad with extensive knowledge and experience in all manner of technical rescue, as well as, is a dog handler in search and rescue operations. Capt. Charles is married and has two children
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2006), Honorable Service Medal (2009), Education/Training Acheivement Medal (2002 & 2005), Field Delivery Award (2005), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
Memberships & Activities: Member of Butler County Employee Association, & Kansas Emergency Medical Services Association.
Biography: Ms. Davis has been employed as a full time EMT for BCEMS since 2002. She obtained her original EMT-B certification in 2001 and her EMT-I certification in 2005. Debbie lives in El Dorado with her two children Destiny & Daelin.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2008 & 2009), Meritorous Service Medal (2008), Honorable Service Medal (2007), & Education/Training Achievement Medal (2006), Academic Attainment Medal (2005 & 2009), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
Memberships & Activities: Butler County Employee's Association, Butler County EMS Training Division, & NREMT Member.
Biography: Mr. Whiteside obtained his original EMT certification in 2004 and began working for BCEMS as part-time employee in March of 2004. Josh was promoted to a full-time position with BCEMS in January 2006. In addition, he also gained his MICT certification in January of 2006. Mr. Whiteside is also one of the few employees that has achieved a Level 2 (advanced level) standing with the department. Prior to starting his EMS career, Josh was a full-time student and employed at Wal-Mart. Josh commpleted his Bachelor's Degree in Leadership at Friends University in 2008. Josh does not have any children, but does play a very active role in raising his Godson & Goddaughter, of whom he is very proud.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2009), Honorable Service Medal (2007), & Exemplary Volunteer Service Medal (2005), Unit Citation Medal (2009). In addition, Kevin was recognized as the KEMSA Educator of the Year in 2009.
Memberships & Activities: DMSU Member, Training Division Member, Member of Butler County EMS Medic 50 Volunteer Group, BCEMS Protocol Committee, Butler County Fire District #3 & Rescue 55, & Certified Master Plumber.
Biography: Mr. Leis obtained his EMT certification in June of 2004 and began his volunteer EMT work with BCEMS Medic 50 in August of that year. Mr. Leis began working as a part-time employee with BCEMS in 2005 and was promoted to full-time status in January 2006. Kevin completed his MICT education and gained MICT/EMT-P certification in January 2007.
Prior to starting his EMS career Kevin was a full-time college student, and since 1997, has moved from part-time plumber to certified Journeyman, and finally, certified Master Plumber in 2004. Kevin's hobbies include restoring antique trucks and tractors, farming, and computers.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2007 & 2009), Exceptional Duty Medal (2003), Meritorious Service Medal (2008), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2002 & 2005), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2 awards in 2007), Field Delivery Award (2008), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2005), Exceptional Duty Medal (2007), Field Delivery Award (2006), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2007), Field Delivery Award (2008), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Biography: Mr. McNary is a veteran of the U.S. Army with over 7 years of service. He has worked the last 16 years in law enforcement before switching to a career in EMS. Byron obtained his EMT-B certification in December of 2005, and his MICT in June of 2007. Byron started with BCEMS as a part-time employee in August of 2007 and promoted to a full-time employee in January 2008. Byron grew up in rural Butler County in the Cassaday and Rosalia area and is now married with 4 children. He enjoys hunting during his off time.
Department Awards: Honorable Service Medal (2009), Field Delivery Award (2008), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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**********B-SHIFT**********
Captain Runnalls is the B-Shift Supervisor for BCEMS. Jason also coordinates the deparment's uniform supply functions, acts as field training officer, and instructs EMS continuing education courses around the county.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2 awards in 2007), Honorable Service Medal (2005 & 2006), & Educational Achievement Medal (2005), Unit Citation Award (2009)
Memberships & Activities: Member BCEMS Training Division, KEMSA Member, & BCEMS Vehicle Specifications Committee.
Biography: Capt. Runnalls obtained his original EMT certification in 1998, and went on to obtain MICT certification in 2002. Jason has, over his career, worked with several EMS agencies as a street technician, and began working for BCEMS in 2003. In addition, Jason also works as a Flight Paramedic with Midwest LifeTeam airmedical service in Hutchinson and Emporia. Prior to starting his EMS career, Jason worked in the fire service and was a deputy sheriff. Jason is also an alumist of the Leadership Butler program and will complete his Bachelor's Degree in Human Resource Management at Friends University in 2010. Jason lives in El Dorado and is the proud parent of one son.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2003 & 2 awards in 2006), Honorable Service Medal (2006), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Honorable Service Medal (2006 & 2007), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2009), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
Memberships & Activities: NREMT Member and Member of the BCEMS Training Division
Biography: Mr. Menadue began his duties with BCEMS as an MICT in late 2005. Joe moved to Kansas after high school and has lived in Newton, KS for eleven years. He obtained his EMT in 2002, his EMT-I in 2003, and his MICT in 2005. Prior to starting with BCEMS Joe has worked with Halstead Fire/EMS, Moundridge EMS, and Reno County EMS. In addition, he has worked as an ECT at the Wesley Medical Center Emergency Department. Joe is married, has two children and enjoys hunting and fishing during his off duty time.
Department Awards: Medal of Valor (2008- for providing care & service in a dangerous situation), Lifesaving Medal (2006, 2008, & two awards in 2009) & Educational Achievement Award/Medal (2006 & 2009), Unit Citation Award (2009)
Biography: Dan was born and raised in north Texas until he relocated to Kansas in 1997. He obtained his EMT certification in 2001 and served as a volunteer for Sedgwick County EMS until coming to work for BCEMS in 2005. Dan received his EMT-I certification in 2006 and his MICT in 2009. On days off, Dan spends his time catering to the whims of his three children, two boys and a girl. Dan has been married to his beautiful wife Shauna since 2001. Dan rarely gets free time, but does enjoy fishing and mountain biking when the opportunities arise.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2 awards in 2006), Honorable Service Medal (2003), Exemplary Volunteer Service Medal (2001), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2005), Academic Attainment Medal (2004), Unit Citation Medal (2009), & Military Service/Veteran Recognition Medal (U.S. Navy).
Memberships & Activities: Mr. Gray is a Training Division Adjunct, is EMS volunteer coordinator is the City of Douglass, KS, and is very active in the department's CPR and PR programs.
Biography: Mr. Gray is a long time veteran of BCEMS having served for numerious years a volunteer with BCEMS Medic 60 where he currently holds the position of Captain. Later, Mr. Gray became a part-time employee of BCEMS and then was promoted to a full-time position. Mr. Gray completed his EMT education in 1996 and obtained his EMT-I certification in 2005. Chris currently lives in Douglass with his wife Theresa. They are the proud parents of three children.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2007), Unit Citation Medal (2009), & Military Veteran Recognition Medal (U.S. Army/Desert Storm)
Memberships & Activities: Member of the Butler County Employee's Association. Volunteer member of Marion County EMS since 2002.
Biography: Mr. Funk obtained his initial EMT certification in 2002. Prior to that, Mr. Funk served in the U.S. Navy from 1989 to 1999 and was involved in operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Stuart went on to obtain his MICT certification in 2006. Mr. Funk enjoys camping and fishing and is an active member of the Methodist Church in Florence, Kansas. Stuart has been married for 14 years and has five children, three of which still live at home. Stuart also has a young granddaughter. Mr. Funk is currently working towards his Bachelor's Degree in Nursing.
Department Awards: Education/Training Achievement Medal (2009) & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2 awards in 2008), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2009), Academic Attainment Medal (2009), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2008), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2009), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Education Achievement Medal (2008) & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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**********C-SHIFT**********
Scott Stueven is a veteran paramedic with BCEMS and is also the department's Designated Infection Control Officer. He holds advanced education and certifications in infection control, and coordinates the department's infection control programs & policies.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2002, 2006, & 2008), Exceptional Duty Medal (2008), Educational Achievement Medal (2004), Field Delivery Award (2004), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
Other Honors & Awards: IWW Paramedic of the Year (2007), KEMSA Paramedic of the Year (2009)
Memberships & Activities: DMSU Member, BCEMS Training Division, Augusta Dept. of Safety Fire Dept, Butler County Rescue Squad, & Certified Rescue Diver
Biography: Mr. Stueven began his career with emergency services in 1994 with the Augusta Department of Safety Fire Division as a volunteer Firefighter. He finished his EMT in 1996 and obtained his EMT I/D later that same year. Scott began working part-time for Butler County in 1996. He completed his MICT in 1997. After working for a year with Emporia Fire/Rescue, Scott returned to work for Butler County as a full time Medic in 1999. Scott is living in Augusta with his wife Shannon and 2 children.
Department Awards: Exceptional Duty Medal (2007), Honorable Service (2009), Education/Training AChievement Medal (2005 & 2009), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
Memberships & Activities: DMSU Member, Training Division Member
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Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2007), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2006), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
Memberships & Activities: NREMT Member
Biography: Mr. Domebo was raised in Smallville, KS has some difficulty seeing through lead, and has occasional violent allergic reactions to Kryptonite (or at least that's his history as according to Dom!). Dom came to work for BCEMS as a full-time EMT immediately after completing his EMT education in May of 2005. Currently, he plans on starting his MICT education in 2009. Prior to beginning his EMS career, Dom was Mfg. Sales Rep for Behr paints. Dom is the proud father of four.
Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2 awards in 2007), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2002 & 2009), & Unit Citation Medal (2009).
Memberships & Activities: Member of the Butler County Employee's Association, Instructor of the BCEMS AHA Training Site, and has served as a BCEMS Kid's Camp Counselor since the camp first began.
Biography: Ms. Ficken obtained her original EMT certification in 1994, then her EMT-I/D in 1995. In 1998 Carla went to work for a private ambulance company in Wichita, and then came to work for BCEMS as a part-time employee in November of 2001 and was later promoted to full time in 2007. Carla obtained her MICT in 2009. In addition to her duties with BCEMS, Carla also works as an EMS education Lab Assistant for Butler County Community College.
Department Awards: Education/Training Achievement Medal (2009), Academic Attainment Medal (2009), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2008 & 2009), Honorable Service Medal (2005 & 2009), Unit Citation Medal (2009), Military/Veteran Service Recognition Medal.
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Department Awards: Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2009), Education/Training Achievement Medal (2009), & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Lifesaving Medal (2009) & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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**********PART-TIME**********
Department Awards: Academic Attainment Medal (2005) & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Education/Training Achievement Medal (2006), Academic Attainment Medal (2006), Unit Citation Medal (2009), & Spotlight Award (for excellence in patient care--2008). Mr. Brautman has also been honored with previous Lifesaving Awards from both the Augusta Dept. of Safety and AMR.
Memberships & Activities: Bob is currently a member of the Butler County Employee Association, KEMTA, KPOA, KNOA, KASRO, KDOA and KSA. Bob is also a PADI Rescue Diver.
Biography: Mr. Brautman is a long-time veteran of emergency services. Prior to working with BCEMS, Bob obtained his EMT education in 1988, his EMT-I in 1991, and his MICT in 1994. Bob is a fifteen year veteran of AMR having left there as a street supervisor and FTO in 2004. In addition, he has in the past held various supervisory level positions and has served as a tactical medic. Bob currently works full time for Lifeteam Air Medical Service on both rotor wing and fixed wing aircraft and is working towards obtaining his nursing license. Bob's experience in all levels and areas of emergency services is a great benefit to BCEMS. Bob currently lives in Augusta, and he and his wife are the proud parents of four children. In his off time Bob enjoys coaching baseball, wrestling, and football.
Department Awards: Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Academic Attainment Medal (2009) & Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Department Awards: Unit Citation Medal (2009)
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Biography: Herbert obtained his original EMT certification in 2007, then graduated from Barton County Community College and obtained his MICT certification in 2009. Shortly after, Herbert began working for BCEMS as a part time MICT. In addition, Herbert also works as an MICT for Sedgwick County EMS.
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The original Rose Hill EMS 1st Response group was established in 1981. In 1984, that group began staffing a BLS ambulance from an ambulance garage located in Rose Hill. A few years later they became a part of Butler County EMS as EMS Station 5 and "Medic 50".
In January 2004, Station 5 & Medic 50 moved to the newly built Butler County Fire District #3 Station and continued to be staffed by volunteer technicians. Due to the tremendous growth in western part of Butler County, on March 9th of 2008, Butler County EMS added a full-time medic unit at Station 5. The volunteers technicians of Medic 50 were moved to a 'volunteer reserve' status, and continue their service to Rose Hill and Butler County by working as 2nd or 3rd technician's on all county medic units.
Butler County EMS proudly acknowledges the 27 years of excellence and quality EMS care provided to the citizens of Rose Hill and surrounding Butler County by these dedicated volunteers, who still today, continue their commitment to EMS and public service as EMS Volunteer Reserves.
You can learn more about these dedicated technicians at www.medic50.com
EMS employee Kevin Leis, MICT also serves the citizens of Rose Hill as a Medic 50 member.