Recently, team members from EMServ, South Central Regional Medical Center’s ambulance service, attended the 2026 Mississippi Center for the Advancement of Prehospital Medicine’s EMS Gala, where the organization’s long‑time and widely respected paramedic, Neal Nelson was honored as Paramedic of the Year. 

Nelson has been employed with EMServ since April 2003, where he began his EMS career as an EMT. He later became a paramedic in 2013 after completing his training at Meridian Community College. Prior to his career in EMS, Nelson served as Captain of the Meridian Fire Department from 2001 to 2013.  

Nelson was nominated for Paramedic of the Year by EMServ Operations Quality Officer, Raimey Brown, AEMT.   

The nomination read, “Neal proudly serves the citizens of Jones County and consistently demonstrates exceptional clinical skill and a deep commitment to serving the community. As a paramedic, Neal goes above and beyond the expectations of the patch. He approaches every call, routine or critical with respect, calmness and precision. He delivers high-quality patient care with unmatched compassion and professionalism.” 

Being the recipient of this award came as quite a shock for Nelson, who prefers being out of the spotlight. His peers, however, believe that his diligence and grit deserve to be recognized and celebrated.  

“Neal is the kind of person who shows up every day eager to help and care for others,” EMServ Director, Wyth Collins, Paramedic, said. “His purpose is simple, his skills are sharp, and his commitment is unwavering. Several years back, he was actually involved in a rollover accident and sustained many injuries. After healing for several months, he returned ready to serve. That is just who he is.”  

Despite the admiration of his colleagues and the impact he has made over the years, Nelson remains grounded in his approach to the work he loves.  

“I did nothing special to receive this award,” Nelson said. “I simply did my job. I love my job. I never have a day where I hate coming to work, and I know that a lot of people do not have that.”