Honorees

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Year Honored
2009
Honoree
Bob Giard
Agency
Regional One Air Medical Service
Agency City
Spartanburg
Agency State
SC
Last Call
7/13/04
Cause of Death
Medical Aviation Accident
Biography
They are taught to be ready for anything, prepared for everything and surprised by nothing. They all know the risks, yet they are special people who face these challenges with grace, speed and confidence. Amidst the most challenging operational environments, you can hear one of them yell out above the noise, "we're going to help you." Bob always traveled on distinctive rides, from a bright yellow motorcycle or the Bello 407 helicopter he flew. His wife, Kimberly Ahearn, stated that her husband loved his job, was a good person and liked helping others.<br /> <br /> Bob Giard, 41, was killed in the line of duty on July 13, 2004. The Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System helicopter crashed shortly after lifting off from an accident scene. It crashed in a heavily wooded area along Interstate 26 in the Sumter National Forest. There were no survivors.<br /> <br /> Pilot Giard had been involved with the hospital's helicopter program since it began in May of 2003. He had ten years' flying experience, moving from Memphis, Tennessee when the hospital began its helicopter rescue service. When in Memphis, Giard worked as a medical pilot and also flew for a television news station.<br /> <br /> Bob loved his sons, and was such a proud father, often sharing stories with them. He enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson Fat Boy motorcycle and hunting.<br /> <br /> Honored 2009