Lt. Darren Ledford was one of Gaston’s first paramedics. After 30 years of service at Gaston Emergency Medical Services, he’s retiring. Ledford’s last day on the job will be Friday, and he’s one of the few paramedics to serve for a full three decades.
“Lt. Ledford has been extremely dedicated in all of his 30 years of service to the citizens of Gaston County,” said GEMS Chief Mark Lamphiear. “The wealth of knowledge, experience and dedication he has given to Gaston County and GEMS will be sorely missed.”
‘Felt natural’: Ledford always knew public safety was something he wanted to pursue. In high school, he’d been interested in first aid and emergency medicine. He worked as the manager of the school’s sports teams and loved the TV show “Emergency.” “It felt natural doing it,” he said.
In 1983, he joined Ranlo Fire and Rescue, where he would later serve as chief. Ledford actually began work before GEMS was even formed. He joined Gaston County Medical Transport in 1984. Then, as the field of emergency care evolved, so did Gaston County Medical Transport. Ledford has watched the evolution over the years.
“Everything’s changed, and we’ve seen a lot of people come and go,” he said. In his time with GEMS, Ledford was crucial in forming the Countywide Advanced Tactic Squad and was a member of GEMS Special Tactics and Rescue Team.
Instructing the next generation: Watching the field of EMS evolve made him eager to become a teacher. “We’ve got to make sure it’s carried on,” he said. “To keep moving forward and make sure that we’re passing on our knowledge to the next generation.”
Ledford has served as a rescue instructor, teaching at colleges throughout the state. “Many of today’s responders, in all branches of emergency services, can attribute their skills and expertise to Darren’s education and leadership,” said GEMS Maj. Clyde Cantrell.
You can reach reporter Lauren Baheri at 704-869-1842 or Twitter.com/lbaheri.