CTC Rescue unveils restored 1970 ambulance

By JOHN HULTGREN
Kentucky EMS Connection

Squad 227. Photo by John Hultgren, Kentucky EMS Connection.

CAMPBELLSVILLE — Campbellsville-Taylor County Rescue unveiled their restored 1970 ambulance at their EMS Appreciation Service held at their headquarters this morning.

Squad 211 is a 1970 Pontiac Bonnieville ambulance with a 455 Pontiac engine manufactured by Superior Coach Corporation. The vehicle was first purchased by the Parrott & Ramsey Funeral Home in 1970. In 1982 it was purchased by the Taylor County Professional Ambulance Service and operated under various owners for approximately three years.

The ambulance was transferred to Taylor Fiscal Court in 1975 and assigned to the Campbellsville-Taylor County Rescue Squad. During its time with the rescue squad it was utilized as a rescue vehicle. In the mid 1980s the vehicle was retired and moved to storage.

In the early 1990s, under then Chief Charles Shaw, the vehicle was brought out of storage and an attempt was made to restore it. Through the generosity of Terry Dabney, the vehicle was repainted in its original colors. However, due to financial limitations the project stalled.

In 2008, through a donation from the Tri-County Car Club, Squad 221 was brought out of storage again and was restored to running condition. With the exception of a few minor parts, the vehicle is mostly original. The medical kit in the vehicle is believed to have been owned by Leo Rios, a former EMT.

The success of this project is due in large part to Maj. Barry Dobson, project manager. He, along with numerous rescue personnel, have spent countless hours working on the project. Much appreciation is also given to Terry Dabney, the Tri-County Car Club, and Summers Auto Sales for contributions made to this project.

"It is our hope that this project will emphasize the dedication of the many men and women who have served as Emergency Medical Technicians and paramedics." according to the even program. "Also, that the history of EMS will be preserved and appreciated as we continue to serve our community."

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