Monadnock Community Hospital hosted its annual Emergency Medical Services  Recognition Dinner on Wednesday, May 21 at the Monadnock Country Club, bringing together emergency medical personnel from across the region to acknowledge their contributions to patient care and community safety.

The evening honored teams from the fire departments of Antrim, Dublin, Francestown, Greenfield, Hancock, Jaffrey, New Ipswich, Peterborough, Rindge and Temple, as well as Jaffrey-Rindge Memorial Ambulance and Souhegan Valley Ambulance Service. The event coincided with National EMS Week.

Dr. Daniel Perli, MCH chief medical officer, opened the evening by thanking EMS providers for their around-the-clock service.

“In a rural community like ours, the impact of your work is felt deeply. You are often the first on the scene, providing critical care when it matters most,” he said.

The program included an update on hospital services and acknowledgments from hospital leadership and staff, including a tribute to the late Lauren Morton, MCH physician assistant, who died in 2024. Morton had served in the MCH Emergency Department and as assistant EMS medical director.

In her memory, MCH introduced the Lauren Morton Award for Excellence in EMS, recognizing a provider who demonstrates skill, dedication and a strong sense of community. The first recipient was Capt. Tim Quinn of Peterborough Fire and Rescue, recognized for his leadership and service during difficult calls.

“The inaugural award goes to a medic who exemplifies the qualities Lauren exhibited – providing medical care and clinical judgment with clarity and grace under pressure, both as a leader and a mentor to newer providers,” said Dr. Eric Lasky, EMS medical director.