posted September 17, 2024

SOMERSET, KY, September 16, 2024 – To commemorate two decades of providing lifesaving care to Somerset and the surrounding communities, Air Methods of Kentucky 3 held a special celebration on Sept. 12. The event, attended by local partners and community members, featured lunch and tours of their aircraft.

“This anniversary shows how much Air Methods of Kentucky means to the area and also how much the area means to Kentucky,” said Air Methods Area Manager Danny Bray. “Being able to celebrate this milestone with the people who have made it all possible, from our amazing crew and our hard-working partners to our inspirational patients, is truly special.”

Guests were able to explore their EC130 aircraft up close, meet current and past crew members and learn more about the clinical capabilities that make Kentucky 3 such a critical resource for the region. Among the crew members was Pilot Aaron Hamm, who was transported by Kentucky 2 in 2002 after nearly losing his life following a four-wheeler accident.

“Doctors told my parents to be prepared to pick up my body,” said Hamm. “They just didn’t think I would make it and even if I did, they never thought I would walk again. I was determined to prove them wrong.”

Having suffered a severe spinal injury and several fractures to his skull and face following the fall off a 17-foot bridge, Hamm defied all odds to walk again and took advantage of his second chance at life to fulfil his dream of becoming a pilot. He worked with the FAA for two years to get medical clearance and started flight school in 2010.

Following the pandemic in 2020, Hamm and his wife decided it was time to move from Hawaii to the Midwest. In 2022, after visiting several bases in various communities, Hamm met with Bray and decided to call Kentucky 3 his new home.

“The people are what makes Air Methods so special,” said Hamm. “The communication, the camaraderie, the focus on the mission is second to none. Everyone is dedicated to providing the best possible care in the safest manner possible.”

Clinical Base Lead Rudy Garrett also helped welcome community members to the event, emphasizing that Kentucky 3 isn’t just based in Somerset—it’s an integral part of the community. Garrett, along with Flight Paramedics Andy Sayers and Tom Watters, was recognized by Air Methods Account Executive Brian Carpenter for his commitment to the base and the Somerset community since its inception.

“All of our paramedics are local to this community. We truly care about this community and providing them the best possible care regardless of their condition,” said Garrett.

One of six CAMTS accredited full-service air medical transport bases under the Air Methods of Kentucky umbrella, Kentucky 3 in Somerset is led by an experienced crew that is highly trained in pediatrics, high-risk OBGYN care, and specialized transport, including patients with intra-aortic balloon pumps.