GATLINBURG – Cumberland County Mayor Allen Foster received the 2022 Tennessee Ambulance Service Association (TASA) John Fitzsimmons EMS Advocacy Award at the annual TASA conference on Feb. 23. The crystal trophy goes to an EMS supporter that exemplifies outstanding advocacy for the Tennessee EMS System and has significantly contributed to the betterment of Tennessee EMS at the local, state or national level. The award is named after John Fitzsimmons because of his dedicated service to both his community and to the Tennessee Ambulance Service Association.
“When I first ran for County Mayor, one of my promises was to work with our first responders including EMS to provide the best service possible,” said Foster. “Receiving this award from a group of individuals that I so highly regard is truly an honor. I am thankful for those that work so hard on our front lines to provide for public safety in our community.”
Foster went on to say, “I want everyone to know that this is a team award. Director Miller and the EMS staff work hard, and we have a county commission that has made first response a priority. They have funded the requests we have made for additional ambulances, LUCAS devices and powered stretchers and lift systems for patient and employee safety. I believe we have the best staff and the best equipped system in the Upper Cumberland.”
Cumberland County EMS Director Chris Miller said, “With the challenges of 2021 and unprecedented EMS staffing shortages, Mayor Foster supported pay increases, a pay incentive for additional licensures and the development of in-house EMS training courses. Mayor Foster has and continues to support EMS with local, regional, and state advocacy and is well deserving of this award.”
