06/17/2026
Lots of big things happening at Austin County EMS this morning!
This morning, Austin County EMS held a special pinning ceremony filled with celebration, recognition, and a few surprises.
Chief Morrow and Assistant Chief Ritchey proudly promoted Paramedic FTO Cole Taylor, Paramedic FTO Naftali Krauss, and Paramedic FTO Cory Neptune to the rank of Lieutenant. With the help of each FTO’s family members, Command Staff were able to successfully surprise and pin these hardworking paramedics.
Over the last several months, these individuals have dedicated themselves to training, growth, and preparation for the leadership challenges ahead. Their commitment to Austin County EMS, their crews, and the citizens we serve does not go unnoticed. Today, we proudly recognize their hard work and celebrate this next step in their careers.
Congratulations, Lieutenants Taylor, Krauss, and Neptune!
A few days ago, Austin County EMS was also proud to add another paramedic to our ranks. Congratulations to AEMT Daisy Svatek on completing your paramedic program, successfully passing your National Registry exam, and obtaining your Texas Licensed Paramedic certification!
Displaying that red and gold patch is a symbol of the hard work, dedication, and sacrifice you have put into your education, your professional growth, and your commitment to improving patient care for the Austin County community. We are extremely proud of you and excited to see you continue to grow in your career.
Congratulations, Paramedic Svatek!
And finally, we had one more very special surprise for Clinical Manager Daniel “DO” Owens. This surprise was so special that we had to sneak his family in through the back doors to keep him from realizing what was coming.
Little did he know, his family would be joining us as he was officially promoted and pinned as Clinical Chief of Austin County EMS.
Clinical Chief Daniel Owens has continuously and passionately advocated for patient care, clinical excellence, process improvement, and better outcomes for Austin County EMS. His dedication to this service, our providers, our patients, and the Austin County community is truly unmatched.
Day and night, Clinical Chief Owens has worked to ensure that the citizens and visitors of Austin County receive the highest level of care we can provide. His leadership, compassion, and drive to improve those around him continue to inspire providers in the field and leaders throughout the organization.
Thank you, Clinical Chief Owens, for being such a strong advocate for Austin County EMS and the community we serve.
A well deserved congratulations to all!