Tyson Gnuyen, Jason Le, and Hannah Le learn about the HALO air ambulance at first responders day (Tiffany Goodwein/CHATNewsToday)

By Tiffany Goodwein

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First Responders Day provides community glimpse into life as first responder

Sep 26, 2021 | 10:05 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – HALO air ambulance, the Medicine Hat Police Service, South East Alberta Search and Rescue and fire crews from Cypress County, and Medicine Hat were stationed outside the Medicine Hat Mall on Saturday. But, luckily it wasn’t for a major emergency. Instead, first responders from across the city joined forces to educate the public on the work they do for the community every day.

The event was put together by Halo Air Ambulance and one of their main sponsors, Southland Volkswagen.

“First responders are pivotal to what we do every day, but during the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been more demands placed on them, including our crews as well and just a chance to get outside and be engaged with people as well, I think it is a really good opportunity,” stated HALO chief executive officer Paul Carolan.

The HALO helicopter touched down at 11 a.m. outside the Medicine Hat Mall, and was piloted by Captain Ryan Shrives. Shrives has been a helicopter pilot for 21 years, and has been flying medivac operations across Canada for years.

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“It’s an essential service no doubt. I have travelled the world, and travelled the country and I have lived in Medicine Hat for many years, and it has always been a shortfall in this region. HALO has stepped up to the plate, upgraded the machine which is a necessity, and it is covering a good portion of the province,” he said.

The blue helicopter proved to be a hit with the kids at the event, who were enamoured with its presence.

“I like it because the design is really cool, and I love the colour on there,” said five-year-old Hannah Le.

During the event, a cheque valued at $10,000 was presented to HALO from Southland Volkswagen to help them stay in flight to save lives

“This is amazing, there is so much generosity coming from Southland Volkswagen. This is how we are funded. We are funded for community by community, and every dollar makes a difference to our program,” Carolan said.

by Tiffany Goodwein

First Responders Day provides community glimpse into life as first responder

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