2016-02-25

Center for Public History, University of Houston; University of Houston Libraries, University of Houston

Bill Hausinger dispatched Otis L. Owens and Glen Morris to respond to Houston’s first EMS call on April 10, 1971, at 12:30 a.m. The interview opens with a recording of that first call. They then share their experiences in joining the department, serving as firefighters and EMTs, and the values that they have learned along the way. They discuss the challenges faced by African Americans, as well as the initial resistance to bringing EMTs into the fire department. Doing 50-60 runs a day while on the job, the men share stories that range from the amusing to tragic. They speak on the changes and improvements of modern day firefighter and ambulance services. Taking a look at their lives the researcher can hear in their voices that they genuinely care about people. All they want to do is be of service. The bond that these individuals and other firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics have is like family, and although the average person may not think about it, they have built EMS in Houston to what it is today. Interviewers: Paulina De Paz, La"Nora Jefferson, James Thornock, Roshni Patel..

interviews

Emergency medical services

Houston, Texas

Oral Histories from the Houston History Project

University of Houston Libraries Special Collections

English

Collection
University of Houston Libraries Special Collections
Houston History Archives
Oral Histories from the Houston History Project

Preservation Location: ark:/84475/pm269674712