Skyler Dougher in the EMS Week spotlight

As National Emergency Medical Services Week approaches May 17-23, the Defense Logistics Agency’s Fire and Emergency Services is highlighting the work of its first responders at DLA Weapons Support (Columbus) and Defense Supply Center Columbus. Among them is firefighter/paramedic Skyler Dougher, who traces his calling to a childhood spent around the firehouse at DSCC.

“One of the biggest things that inspired me was growing up around the fire house. I was shown the fire service from a young age by my dad, who is a fire captain here at DSCC. I distinctly remember the members of the departments always being a giant family and how they were always there for one another,” Dougher said.

“I joined DLA FES in July 2024 as a firefighter/EMT. Before joining DLA, I was a staff sergeant in the United States Air Force as a fire protection crew chief,” he said.

Describing his routine, Dougher said, “A typical day starts before the 48-hour shift even begins. I usually show up around an hour early so that I can get my personal items squared away and get my truck assignment for the day. After that we will conduct monthly training, respond to various types of emergencies and most importantly, figure out what meal we will cook for that day!”

“One thing that stands out is a response to an incident when our team was able to quickly assess, treat and transport the injured person to the ER. The teamwork that we have is unstoppable, and we are able to come together no matter the challenge we face,” he said.

“One of the hardest parts of my job is that sometimes we try our hardest and we cannot succeed. I believe that this is the hardest part because even with all our skills and knowledge, we cannot always be the answer to the problem no matter the circumstances we may face,” Dougher added.

“What I like most about the job is that we truly are a family. We eat together, we work together and we are under the same roof for 48 hours at a time. When you are away from your family, you are here with your second family. These are the people that can give you life advice, be a shoulder to lean on and if it ever comes down to it, they may be the ones that save your life,” he said.

“After a shift, I enjoy spending time with my wife and our four dogs. I also enjoy playing golf and going for walks with our pets,” Dougher said.

His reflections align with this year’s National EMS Week theme, “Improving Outcomes, Together,” underscoring the teamwork and family bond that underpin emergency response at DSCC.