Mount Vernon Fire Department honors top EMS provider, firefighter and officer

The Mount Vernon Fire Department honored its best for 2025 during a banquet recently.

Kayla Carr was named the winner of the Dr. Tracy Schermer EMS Provider of the Year, while Jordan Crabtree received the Firefighter of the Year award and Lt. Nate Hines was named the Officer of the Year during an event at the Woodward Opera House.

The EMS award was created to honor Schermer, the former medical director, for his dedication to EMS throughout the community.

Carr was selected for the award because of her exceptional patient care, compassion and professionalism, according to MVFD. She serves as a mentor and trainer, and is a strong advocate for patients and co-workers.

Her captain said, “This individual has been expected to perform as a senior paramedic for the crew, even with less than five years of service. This person always applies the appropriate protocols and treatments, and takes on the role of teaching new employees and paramedics each and every shift. This member had done and continues to do an exceptional job and has far exceeded my expectations.”

The Firefighter of the Year award is presented in recognition of exceptional dedication, professionalism and commitment to the mission of MVFD. According to MVFD, Crabtree has demonstrated performance and leadership that far exceed expectations for his rank and tenure.

Crabtree is a fire/EMS instructor, serves as CPR instructor and continually seeks opportunities to expand his knowledge base. He exemplifies outstanding patient care and customer service, consistently delivering high-quality, compassionate care to the citizens.

His captain said, “He is passionate. He demands performance excellence not only of himself, but also of his fellow employees.”

The Officer of the Year is presented in recognition of outstanding leadership, dedication and service to the department, its members and the community.

Hines has consistently demonstrated the qualities expected of an exceptional officer and has gone above and beyond in fulfilling those expectations. He also proudly serves as the Honor Guard commander.

“This person consistently delivers a high level of patient care and is an officer who places the department and its members first,” according to MVFD officials. “Always available to take a call or listen, he serves as a trusted sounding board for employees at all levels. This willingness to support others, take on new tasks, and complete any education asked of them speaks volumes about his character and dedication.”