‘Moving Honors’ memorial makes stop in Charleston to honor fallen EMS professionals

CHARLESTON COUNTY, SC (WCBD) – Charleston County leaders, South Carolina EMS, and many other organizations gathered Tuesday to pay tribute to fallen EMS professionals.

Dozens of emergency vehicles of all types, first responders, and community leaders gathered at Brittlebank Park in downtown Charleston to pay tribute to the nation’s fallen EMS professionals.

It was all part of the National EMS Memorial Service Moving Honors that stopped in multiple cities this month from Seattle, Washington all the way to Arlington, Virginia.

The ‘Moving Honors’ tradition started in 2020 as a way to honor EMS professionals across the country. Plans are in the works for a permanent memorial to be built in Washington DC, but it’s still in the approval process.

Charleston County leaders said that EMS workers are often first on the scene in critical moments providing life-saving care. The selflessness and dedication shown by these individuals need to be celebrated as they also advocate for a permanent memorial in the Nation’s capital.

“I see firsthand the remarkable dedication and professionalism of our county EMS team, their commitment to excellence, and tireless efforts to serve our community are truly inspiring,” said Jenny Honeycutt, Charleston County Council vice chair. “While this memorial travels across the nation to remind us of these heroes, we look forward to the day when a permanent EMS memorial is established—providing a dedicated space for family, friends, and colleagues, to honor and remember the remarkable sacrifices made by EMS providers every day.”

Tuesday’s ceremony included a reading of names, bagpipe playing, and a procession of vehicles. Moving Honors will stop in 18 different states for similar services this summer.