I've been blessed in many ways while learning about Supporting Heroes. We honored the 8 that had fallen in 2014 prior to August 2nd during Heroes Challenge. Garry Hammer was one of those. During the process I actually "met" his son Jeremy. Jeremy, aside from my running partner in crime Lanett, is the only survivor (family member) I've had the privilege to speak with. He's told me things about his dad & I can't help but think I truly would've adored this man.
Garry served for 39 years & taught for nearly 30 of those. Though I've heard his classes weren't in typical classroom style, many people learned a lot from him. He loved the medical field & was dedicated to taking care of those in need. This showed in his work.
Paramedic Hammer suffered a fatal heart attack minutes after arriving home from a 12-hour overnight shift. He had made emergency responses during his tour of duty, including a 55-minute emergency transport from LaGrange to Fort Wayne.
In addition to serving as a paramedic with LaGrange County EMS, he served as: LaGrange County Sheriff's Department SWAT Medic; Cadaver Dog Handler with Indiana Department of Homeland Security District 3 Search and Rescue Task Force; Deputy Coroner in LaGrange and Noble Counties; and was a member of the Primary Instructors Education Committee of the Indiana Board of EMS. He was also Critical Care certified and CISM certified.
Outside of work his passion was hunting. He loved to deer hunt.
His passing left behind his wife, 3 daughters, 2 sons & 12 grandchildren. I know today was rough for them. This was yet another 1st for them as he's not here on this anniversary. I pray that God's blessings cover them with happy memories today. They were blessed with a great man & I'm honored to run for him.
RIP Garry Hammer
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