Oconee EMC recognizes crew members for lifesaving actions

Oconee EMC has nominated four members of its line crew and support staff for Lifesaving Awards for actions taken over the past year to help get members of the community out of harm’s way. 

The designation, presented by Georgia EMC and awarded during the co-op group’s annual meeting, recognizes linemen and other crew members who assisted someone in a life-threatening situation. Oconee EMC has documented two such events in this year’s award period, Sept. 1, 2025 to Aug. 31, 2026. 

“Our line workers and support staff have said many times that the individuals in each situation were someone’s family. They did what they hoped anyone would do in their position to help a fellow person in need-it wasn’t for recognition,” said Jennifer Bryant, Oconee EMC’s chief administrative officer. These instances are another example of that sentiment. Whether it be weather-related, in outage situations, home energy audits or everyday circumstances, we (Oconee EMC employees, directors, members and neighbors) are in this together.” 

The most recent incident occurred on June 16.

On that day, crew members Bubba Oliver and Ryne Neal were traveling towards Dublin on U.S. 80. A vehicle in front of them left the roadway and went into the woods. With no mobile phone signal at the location, Oliver and Neal continued along the road until 911 could be contacted. 

The duo then returned to the scene and located the car among the trees, to find the driver still inside and having a medical emergency. Oliver and Neal began clearing limbs and debris to make room for emergency crews. They remained with the driver until paramedics arrived. 

The second event took place on Nov. 24, 2025 and also included the quick action of Oliver and Neal. 

An Oconee EMC crew was driving along Ga. 338 towards U.S. 441 when it came upon a wreck involving two log trucks. One of the trucks was overturned, the driver trapped with a severely injured arm. With fuel and other fluids leaking from the vehicle, Neal cut the seatbelt, then he, along with Oliver, handed the injured trucker to Cam Burch and Daniel Hall, who carried the victim to safety. 

The crew remained on the scene until emergency personnel arrived. 

Georgia’s EMC annual meeting, where the four will be officially recognized, is set for Nov. 9 in Savannah.