BCMH Honors Russell Whisenand for 12 Years in Emergency Medical Services
Bates County Memorial Hospital is honoring Russell (“Russ”) Whisenand on his retirement after more than 12 years of service with the hospital’s ambulance department.
Russ joined BCMH in November 2013 as a paramedic. During his time with the service, he also took on a leadership role within the department, serving for several years as ambulance supervisor and later as ambulance administrator.
Throughout his career, Russ has been dedicated to supporting both his fellow EMS professionals and the broader emergency response community. One of his favorite memories was assisting with training for the Bates County Sheriff’s Office at the request of the late Kelly Phillips.
Russ has also supported a number of community education efforts during his time with the ambulance service. He played a role in helping plan and stage Butler High School’s mock accident program, a live-action training event designed to help students understand the real-life consequences of impaired driving.
He also regularly participated in community outreach events and educational opportunities, reflecting his belief that EMS professionals should remain connected with the communities they serve.
Reflecting on his time in EMS, Russ said he most appreciates working alongside staff who share a strong vision for the culture and mission of emergency medical services.
“This is not just a job. It is a calling,” he said. “The work can be hard and exhausting at times, but there is no better way to serve and help people.”
BCMH thanks Russ for his years of dedication to emergency medical services and for his commitment to the patients and communities served by the BCMH Ambulance Service.
