In the late 1960s, Wilson Rawlings identified a critical gap in southeastern Kentucky’s emergency response capabilities. EMS was frequently called to vehicle accidents where occupants were trapped, and at the time, tow truck operators were left to free them by using winches to pull vehicles apart. No emergency agency in the region had the tools or training for proper extrication. The London City Fire Department handled searches for lost persons and drownings but did not have the resources for complex extrications. Recognizing the urgent need for specialized rescue, Wilson reached out to fellow firefighters Jerry Cottongim and Lawrence “Blackfire” McClain, inviting them to join him in forming a rescue squad.
When the London-Laurel Rescue Squad was founded in 1969, it started from scratch—without a single piece of equipment. Their earliest tools were a railroad jack, a come-along hand winch, and a pry bar. Since the Laurel County Fiscal Court initially offered no financial support, members would stand on street corners each weekend, collecting donations from the community to buy necessary equipment. Their first rescue vehicle, a used box truck, was donated by Kerns Bakery, and one of their first essential tools, a K-12 rotary saw, was added soon after. In 1975, they purchased their first new rescue vehicle, modeled after the iconic Rescue 51 from the popular Emergency! TV show. Recognizing the squad’s growing impact, the Laurel County Fiscal Court provided $10,000 in 1976 for a set of hydraulic “Jaws of Life”—an essential tool that, unlike the K-12 saw, allowed for safer, spark-free extrications.
With vehicles and tools in hand, the squad needed a base of operations. They made do with whatever space was available until the Laurel County Fire Department offered them a bay in its building. As the community’s needs expanded, especially with the completion of Interstate 75 in 1970 and the construction of Laurel Lake in the early 1970s, the Rescue Squad continued to invest in equipment and specialized training.
Over the decades, the squad has responded to thousands of calls. One particularly memorable event occurred in 1989 in Jackson County, where a student took 11 hostages. Wilson recalls transporting nurses and medical supplies to the scene, prepared to support what could have been a challenging crisis. Though the incident ended peacefully, it underscored the real threats they were equipped to handle.
As demand grew, the squad remained focused on their primary role: vehicle extrication. Local accident-prone areas, like “Dive Bomber Hill” on US 25 North, kept them busy. “Any time it rained, we had a wreck on Dive Bomber Hill,” Wilson recalls.
Today, the London-Laurel Rescue Squad is proud of its growth and the community it serves. What began as three dedicated individuals with minimal tools in a box truck has evolved into a highly skilled rescue agency. They now respond not only to local emergencies but also across Kentucky, with trained teams capable of handling dive and water recovery, land recovery, vehicle and building extrication, low- and high-angle rescue, confined space rescues, and more. The squad’s journey reflects a commitment to service, growth, and resilience in the face of new challenges.
- Integrity
- Delegation
- Communication
- Self-correction
- Learning agility
- Influence
- Empathy
- Encouragement
It is important to have well-rounded leaders who have the experience to handle emergencies and also an understanding of teamwork and motivation. Members challenge their leadership to be the example. Rank is not a status symbol, it is an opportunity to improve the team by empowering those who are part of it.
Officers are elected and appointed every two years, or as vacancies arise.
Just like most first responder organizations in our county, our members are dedicated volunteers who give their time—and often risk their lives—to serve our community. They are prepared to step into emergencies that others might only witness on the news, braving extreme conditions to protect lives and restore safety. When you or a loved one faces an emergency, they’re there, arriving swiftly with the skills, strength, and compassion needed to handle critical situations.
To ensure they’re ready for any scenario, our members train tirelessly, committing to rigorous drills and advanced training programs. Their commitment goes beyond a basic response; it’s about instilling hope and restoring order amid chaos. From vehicle accidents to rescue missions, our members are relentless in their pursuit of excellence, bringing calm, professionalism, and unwavering support to every call they answer. They are the embodiment of service and sacrifice, giving their best to ensure that, from the moment they arrive on scene, conditions improve, and lives are safeguarded.
Squad Specialty members are a dedicated group within the London-Laurel Rescue Squad, bringing advanced, focused training in specific fields crucial to various rescue operations. Each of these specialists holds certifications in areas that demand precision, technical knowledge, and resilience, allowing them to handle high-risk situations effectively and efficiently. Examples of specialties include rescue divers, who are trained to perform underwater recoveries and searches, and rope rescue technicians, who are skilled in navigating steep terrains and confined spaces. These members add immense value by ensuring that the squad can respond to diverse and challenging situations with expertise and safety. Their specialized training not only enhances the squad’s operational capabilities but also serves as an invaluable resource in protecting and rescuing the community.
Support Members play a crucial role in our operations, filling vital positions that may not be on the frontlines but are essential to our mission. While they may not always be hands-on in emergencies, they dedicate their time and expertise to keep the squad running smoothly. From organizing fundraisers and managing community outreach to planning events and tackling the countless behind-the-scenes tasks, Support Members provide an invaluable service to our squad and the community. Their commitment allows our responders to stay focused on emergency calls, knowing there’s a dedicated team meeting every operational need. With their help, we’re able to continue our lifesaving work, respond effectively to the community’s needs, and grow as an organization. Support Members remind us that every role has purpose, and together, we’re stronger and better equipped to serve.
The London Laurel County Rescuemen’s Club, inc. is a 501(c)(3) designated non-profit organized and operated exclusively to provide administrative, training, and support services to the rescue workers of the London Laurel County Rescue Squad.
Tyson Baker
President
John Allen
Vice President
Drew Allen
Secretary
Elizabeth Sparks
Treasurer
Darren Wyatt
Board of Directors
Brandon Wagers
Board of Directors
Jonathan Dampier
Board of Directors
Wes Walker
Board of Directors
Cristy Wagers
Board of Directors
Eric Stallard
Board of Directors