History
A long history of helping
Since 1933, the VRS has provided critical emergency care services to the towns of Kinderhook and Stuyvesant, as well as to parts of Chatham, Ghent and Stockport. For over 80 years, VRS Paramedics, EMTs and volunteers have undergone extensive training in basic an advanced life-saving medicine.
Today, VRS responds to over 2,500 calls each year and transports more than 1,600 patients annually.
1930s
Harry Smith organizes the Valatie Volunteer Rescue, then known as an “Inhalator Squad,” to provide oxygen cylinders and first aid to local firefighters. The Squad purchases and renovates a hearse, painting it bright red, as its purpose evolved from death to life.
1950s
24-hour/day dispatch introduced by Squad Captain Charles Pardee, Sr. who also used an old resuscitator and scrap tubing to make the first bottled air system owned by an ambulance service.
1960s
Bud Pardee, Chauncy Craft A CB radio-based communications network and mutual aid agreements are instituted and, for the first time, the Squad offers first aid courses to the community.
1967
The Squad acquires a new Cadillac ambulance. Pictured are Vince Wallace, Bud Pardee, Harry Smith, Leonard Williams, Archie Lebrecht, Chauncy Craft, Unknown, and Wayne Pulver.
1970s
Moving to its present location of off Route 9H in Valatie, the Squad became the first NYS-Certified ambulance squad in the region, built the first van-based ambulances, introduced the “Jaws Of Life” to our area, and trained the first female METs (medical emergency technician—the forerunner to present-day EMTs.)
1980 - 1999
The Squad’s staff, volunteers, expertise and coverage grew substantially over the last 20 years of the 20th Century. In 1997, the first paid Paramedic joined the Squad. In 1998, four Squad members completed our first Critical Care Technician course.
2000 - Today
In the 21st Century, the VRS continues its tradition of delivering leading-edge service to the community. Today, we provide coverage 24/7, 365 days each year. Our Service Area includes the Towns of Kinderhook and Stuyvesant, parts of Chatham, Ghent and Stockport, and the Fire Districts of Kinderhook, Valatie, Niverville, Stuyvesant, Stuyvesant Falls, West Ghent, Stockport, Chatham and North Chatham
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