BLACKSBURG – The Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad has been awarded the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Agency.
The Governor’s Award for Outstanding EMS Agency recognizes and honors an EMS agency that exemplifies exceptional professionalism, a strong commitment to community service, and excellence in patient care, demonstrated through innovative training programs, public health initiatives, robust community engagement, and leadership within the EMS system at local, regional, state, and national levels.
On Monday, May 19, 2025, the first day of National EMS Week, Governor Glenn Youngkin presented Chief David English with the award, which English accepted on behalf of the entire Blacksburg Rescue team.
“The town offers its congratulations to the Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad for receiving this prestigious award for the second time in eight years, said Deputy Town Manager Steve Ross. “Being recognized a second time demonstrates the outstanding EMS services the Rescue Squad continues to provide our community. Additionally, we are appreciative of all the individuals who volunteer their time to provide this valuable service.”
The Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing prehospital emergency medical and technical rescue services to the Town of Blacksburg, portions of Montgomery County, and neighboring communities. In 2024, BVRS responded to 3,885 calls for service, achieving 100% first-team and 99.3% overall coverage rates while also handling over 100 calls for neighboring agencies.
Their 170 active volunteers contributed 89,866 hours of service valued at over $3 million. The Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad actively participates in various community events and provides training to the public and other public safety agencies.
“I’m truly honored to accept this award on behalf of Blacksburg Rescue,” said David English, Chief of Blacksburg Rescue. “It is a testimony to the dedication and professionalism of our team. In a time when many volunteer agencies are struggling, it’s especially meaningful that our all-volunteer rescue squad can achieve this distinction from among the hundreds of other volunteer, career, and combination departments across Virginia.”
In addition to emergency response, the Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad is a pillar of the Blacksburg community through public education, safety training, and participation in local events. The award underscores the organization’s sustained impact and commitment to excellence in emergency medical services. For more information about the Blacksburg Volunteer Rescue Squad and its programs, visit www.blacksburgrescue.org.
