
By Kelley Gaskill
When a major storm threatens our coast, or a massive event like Pony Swim week brings thousands of visitors to the Shore, county and town leaders need accurate facts to make informed decisions. That is where a Director of Emergency Management comes in. They act as the central hub: gathering critical information, tracking the weather, coordinating with rescue teams so our local leaders can make the right decisions when seconds matter most and so much more.
On Chincoteague Island, that vital role belonged to one man for thirty-six years: Bryan Rush. Throughout his career, he was an integral part of the department’s growth, helping our local EMS evolve into the around-the-clock lifeline it is today.
This week, Kelley visited with Bryan as he looked back at his incredible career, the storms he helped navigate and the greatest guiding force in his career and life on the island.












