Arkansas City Fire/EMS Personnel Honored for Two Life-Saving Responses
ARKANSAS CITY, Kan. — Several members of the Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department were recognized at the June 2 City Commission meeting for their roles in two separate cardiac emergencies earlier this year, both of which resulted in the patients' full recoveries.
According to a June 4 post on the Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department's official Facebook page (facebook.com/ArkCityFireEMS/posts/pfbid0gdEbJacFn9U1zTmGNYCbixzhR55yUXVYS2MWa88TxA741z8aQu2CEkW2dwTaudotl), the first recognition involved a Jan. 17 response to the home of Jeff Bryant, who was experiencing cardiopulmonary arrest. Upon arrival, EMS personnel found Bryant without a pulse and not breathing. Advanced Life Support interventions were initiated, resulting in the return of spontaneous circulation and respirations. Bryant was transported to South Central Kansas Medical Center and later transferred to a Wichita hospital for specialized care before being discharged several days later.
EMS personnel involved in Bryant's care included Lt. Paramedic Daniel Dedrick, Paramedic Jaxson Slater, EMT Nate Wilson, EMT Captain Mike Evinger and EMT Captain Tanner McClure.
Bryant attended the commission meeting to personally thank the crew.
"I think sometimes we hear the term public servant and don't fully realize how seriously these individuals take their job," Bryant said. "I was absolutely amazed by their professionalism, knowledge, and dedication."
Bryant said he later met with the EMS crew to learn more about the incident and reflected on the experience in remarks to the commission.
"I want to thank God for providing this group, not only for me, but for the memories I've made since January 17," Bryant said. "I ask that He care for the safety of these individuals as they care for the community, be their shield, and allow them to continue their duties."
The second recognition honored the crew that responded Feb. 2 to the home of Gary Harper, who was also experiencing cardiopulmonary arrest. EMS personnel found Harper without a pulse and not breathing. Advanced Life Support interventions were initiated, and Harper was transported to South Central Kansas Medical Center before being transferred to a Wichita hospital for specialized care. He was later discharged.
EMS personnel involved in Harper's care included Lt. Paramedic Daniel Dedrick, Paramedic Jaxson Slater, Paramedic Shawn Dent, EMT Austyn Butler, EMT Captain Mike Evinger and EMT Captain Tanner McClure.
Harper told commissioners he spent 17 days in the hospital, including 14 days in intensive care. Doctors later determined he had aspirated, triggering a medical emergency that led to cardiac arrest.
"We ended up with a pacemaker, which, thank God, hasn't turned on once," Harper said.
Harper's wife, Gari Harper, also addressed the commission.
"It's amazing to me that he is not only here, but he is back to work," she said. "I am very, very happy and proud to live in a city like Arkansas City that has a department with you guys. Thank you."
Source: Arkansas City Fire/EMS Department Facebook page, June 4, 2026.