​On September 2, 2025, CSEMS proudly celebrated the outstanding dedication and achievements of
EMS providers and agencies throughout the Central Shenandoah Region. Nominees, nominators,
agency representatives, and family members came together at the Elkton Volunteer Fire Company to
honor the region’s finest heroes in emergency medical services.
In the presence of Central Shenandoah EMS Council Board President Gary Critzer, CSEMS Executive
Director Daniel Linkins, Rockingham County Fire-Rescue Battalion Chief Doug Gooden, and
members of the Elkton Volunteer Fire Company, CSEMS bestowed its highest honor—the prestigious
Regional Award for Excellence in EMS—recognizing unparalleled commitment and service.

Excellence in EMS - Michael Derek Smith, Assistant Fire Chief and the Secretary of the Board of
Directors

For more information, please click here.

Pictured Left to Right: Doug Goodwin, Michael Smith, Daniel Linkin, Gary Critzer

💚 September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month — a time to spread hope, raise awareness, and remind each other that help is always available. Together, we can break the stigma around mental health and create safe spaces for open conversations.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please know you are not alone. Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — available 24/7.
Let’s look out for one another, share resources, and bring light to those who need it most. 💚

​ Save the Date!
EMT Course Grottoes Rescue Squad
Scan the QR code or click on the link below to complete the interest form: https://forms.office.com/r/AdWyxfbP04
Don’t miss this opportunity to join the team and make a difference!

​Ever wonder what a Prehospital PECC is, or even what they do? The PECC is a person within an EMS agency that supports and champions the preparedness, training and safe delivery of pediatric care to the community. This workshop will present information on and how to build a solid pediatric program within your EMS agency. To register for the workshop, please email Mike Garnett at [email protected]