On December 17, 2023, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners held a commendation ceremony recognizing the outstanding service of the Sun City Center Emergency Squad. Chief Mike Bardell accepted the honor on behalf of the dedicated volunteers who have been responding to emergencies in the community since 1964.
The all-volunteer squad provides a variety of crucial services, including free CPR training and disaster planning, showcasing their commitment to both crisis response and prevention. With an impressive annual call volume of nearly 4,000 ambulance requests, the Sun City Center Emergency Squad has made a significant impact on public safety in the area. Their dedication has recently earned them the prestigious EMS World/NAEMT 2025 Volunteer EMS Service of the Year Award.
Celebrating Volunteerism and Community Support
The squad, comprised of approximately 370 volunteers, exemplifies the spirit of community service, proving that age is no barrier to heroism. The average age of the volunteers is 70, yet their passion and dedication remain unwavering. Chief Bardell, embodying the squad’s ethos, remarked to the Hillsborough County Newsroom, “The truth is, the true heroes are the 370 volunteers.” He emphasized that retirement does not equate to an end of service, stating, “Just because we’re retired doesn’t mean we’re done.”
In addition to honoring the Sun City Center Emergency Squad, the ceremony recognized another local leader, Andrew Emerton, the founder of Breathe Florida. Emerton was commended for his nonprofit work, which focuses on equipping high school students with life-saving skills. Through Breathe Florida, he has facilitated free CPR certification courses in partnership with the American Heart Association, ensuring that young people are prepared to act in emergencies.
The commendation ceremony reflects Hillsborough County’s commitment to acknowledging the vital contributions of its community members. The efforts of both the Sun City Center Emergency Squad and Breathe Florida highlight the importance of volunteerism and proactive community engagement in enhancing public safety and preparedness.
As the county continues to honor those who serve, the dedication of these individuals serves as an inspiration for others to engage in community service, reinforcing the notion that collective action can lead to significant positive change.
