GOSHEN, Ind. — A full City Council chamber applauded Monday, Aug. 25, as Goshen firefighters received Lifesaving Awards for reviving men in separate cardiac arrest emergencies.
Division Chief Michael Hamby was honored first for his off-duty actions on June 26, 2025. Hamby heard cries for help near his Patricia Church Drive home and found his neighbor, Art Ruehle, in cardiac arrest.
Without equipment or backup, Hamby began chest compressions and sustained CPR until EMS crews arrived. His quick action helped restore Ruehle’s pulse before he reached the hospital.
Ruehle attended the ceremony and presented Hamby with a certificate and medal.
“We are all blessed to have this gentleman in our neighborhood,” Ruehle said. “He keeps all of us safe and responds to anything that happens, even when he’s home relaxing.”
Paramedic and EMT lifesaving awards
Later in the meeting, Paramedics Hannah Estes, Jonathan Weishaupt, Shane McKerchie, Jerod Erb and EMT Jordan Hunter were recognized for their coordinated response to a Feb. 1, 2023 emergency in which Goshen resident Mike Davis collapsed at home. Family members and a Goshen police officer had begun CPR when firefighters arrived. Crews delivered CPR, defibrillations, airway management, oxygen therapy and medications, restoring Davis’s pulse within minutes.
Davis credited their speed and skill. “From what I understand, they were there in three minutes,” he said. “Goshen has one of the best departments in the area.”
Fire Chief Anthony Powell said both awards reflected the department’s dedication.
“These actions not only exemplify technical excellence and calm under pressure,” Powell said, “but more importantly, they reflect the compassion, courage and commitment our paramedics and EMTs bring to work every single day.”