Chuck Hanson’s impact on EMS spans decades. He has saved lives of patients and touched the lives of countless EMS team members and health care professionals.
#EMSHeroesHighlights #RuralEMS #FirstResponders #EMSSavesLives
Submitted by: Haden Merkel – Mobridge, SD
For decades, Chuck has been a steady and trusted presence in emergency medical services in our region. His impact is deeply woven into the systems, people, and communities he has served.
As Haden Merkel shared, “I don’t know all the history of Chuck’s time in EMS—he has been working in the field and making a huge impact in our area for decades—probably decades before I even moved to town.” Even without knowing every chapter of that history, it is clear that Chuck’s dedication has shaped EMS in meaningful and lasting ways.
Haden describes Chuck as “calm, collected, a wonderful listener, a passionate advocate for EMS, a natural teacher, and a strong supporter and mentor for younger EMS teammates.” Those qualities have made him a trusted presence for colleagues and new EMS professionals alike.
Reflecting on her early experiences, Haden noted, “When I first started working in EMS, he graciously shared so much history and information with me about why things are the way they are now and his ideas on how EMS could change in a positive way in the future.”
Chuck served as EMS Director at Mobridge Regional Hospital & Clinics for many years and continues to work with Mobridge and Selby EMS services. As Haden shared, “He’s been there for rural residents in our area when they’ve needed him most… and shares his knowledge in a completely disarming and unassuming way.”
“We are so thankful for the lifetime of service he has given to EMS,” Haden added. “We are all better for knowing him here at MRH&C, both professionally and personally.”
@South Dakota EMS Association @SDAA
