A large crowd of family and friends attended graduation ceremonies Thursday night, May 21st, for Hardtner Medical Center’s (HMC) Spring 2026 EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) Course.
For the past four months, the 11 students have attended weekly night courses to complete the requirements to earn their EMT certification, allowing them to take their next step in working in the emergency medical field.
The course was conducted as part of a Rural EMS Grant received last year by the Urania hospital, secured through the work of HMC Instructor and Emergency Medical Director of Operations Rhea Tannehill and EMS Training Officer Lindley Davis.
Some of those who completed the course will begin work on ambulances, while others will use their certification to assist in their other volunteer capacities or full-time jobs, such as members of fire departments or sheriff’s departments.
Lindley Davis was the lead instructor for the EMT course, assisted by HMC’s EMS Director of Operations Rhea Tannehill along with other of Hardtner’s EMTs and Paramedics.
Tannehill also delivered the graduation address, pointing out the ups and downs of the EMT life but noted making an impact during traumatic times in people’s lives is worth it.
She described a typical shift in the life of an EMT, from going from call to call to missing meals, sleep and restroom breaks, to being cursed and spit on, to watching the most devastating tragedies.
“And you start to wonder if you really do make a difference,” she said. “But seeing those who you did help and have them express their gratitude to you, you start to realize what you do really does matter. It won’t always matter to everyone, but it will matter to someone.”
Also taking part in the program was Cherry Salter, Hardtner Medical Center COO, who offered words of encouragements and the opening prayer.
Along with their certifications, several graduates were recognized for their outstanding service during the class, including: Above & Beyond Award – Jay King Question Master – Collin Bamburg
Perseverance Award – Debinie Perot Academic Excellence Award (Highest GPA) – Collin Bamburg The following are members of the Spring 2026 HMC EMT Graduation Class: Katelyn Nugent, Jacob Overturf, Alli Jordan, Izabella Smith, Debinie Perot, Kayle Lee, Brian Wooten, Collin Bamburg, Jesse Hart, Jay King, and Zack Downs Preparations are currently being made for an Advanced EMT class to be held this fall. For more information, contact Lindley Davis at (318) 495-3131 EXT. 783
