Madison, WI – Today Rep. Paul Tittl (R-Manitowoc) recognized Hilbert/Potter First Responder President Doug Schoen as a “Hometown Hero” during the Assembly session January 20th.
Doug, who was nominated by Hilbert Village Administrator Dennis Duprey, has spent the last 21 years volunteering and saving lives with his local EMS unit.
“Because of his efforts and the work of like-minded people, there will be responders ready in Calumet County when people call for help.” Said Rep. Tittl.
Back in 1999, Doug was a driving force behind the Hilbert/Potter First Responder Group. With Hilbert’s population of 1,086 and Potter’s population of 240, a passionate group of people realized the need for medical assistance in these rural communities.
Doug approached their community leaders to see if they would be interested in having a cooperative agreement with each other to support the group with funds to operate the group. The communities met and felt that it was a great idea.
Doug knew that if the group were to get off the ground, he would commit to the long haul. He was committed and he made it happen, and he sacrificed greatly to ensure success of the group.
“The group has often put their own lives at risk under often not-so-ideal conditions. This group has saved countless lives over the last 21 years.” Continued Rep. Tittl.
Since the beginning, Doug has responded to over 90% of the calls the group receives each year. In 2020, Doug responded to 112 out of 126 calls. He has done this all while working full time, raising a family, serving as a member of the Potter Volunteer Fire Department, and taking an active role in the department’s summer youth softball league which serves over 100 area youth on an annual basis.
“He has helped so many people for so long and has devoted himself to care for others and make sure there are properly trained first responders.”
The Wisconsin State Assembly created the Hometown Heroes program to recognize individuals around the state who commit to making a difference in their communities. Award winners are invited to the State Capitol and given an opportunity to speak on the Assembly floor as a special guest.
