Grand Elks Lodge Emergency Services Medal Of Valor To Be Awarded Posthumously To Gregory D. Neely

  • Wednesday, June 7, 2023
Pictured, left to right: Tommy Maynard, District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler Billy Claybough, Tammy Neely Maynard, Gregory Maynard, Dr. Grayson Maynard and Chattanooga Elks Lodge Exalter Ruler David Thompson, Sr.
Pictured, left to right: Tommy Maynard, District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler Billy Claybough, Tammy Neely Maynard, Gregory Maynard, Dr. Grayson Maynard and Chattanooga Elks Lodge Exalter Ruler David Thompson, Sr.
In recognition of National EMS Week, the Board and Officers of Chattanooga Elks Lodge #91 presented the National Grand Elks Lodge Emergency Services Medal of Valor posthumously to Gregory D. Neely, flight paramedic with LifeForce, Erlanger Medical Center.

During the presentation at the Chattanooga Elks Lodge, Mr. Neely’s family was honored and presented the Medal of Valor by District Deputy Grand Exalted Ruler Billy Claybough, representing the Grand Lodge.

Over 50 former employees of the Hamilton County Emergency Medical Service, Chattanooga and Hamilton County Fire Departments were also recognized at the luncheon.

Mr.
Neely died during his last call on Oct. 3, 1990. He gave the ultimate sacrifice – his life – when he fell to his death during a hazardous mountain rescue attempt. Erlanger Medical Center’s LifeForce helicopter answered a call to assist a man who had fallen from a cliff. As Mr. Neely was rappelling up the side of the cliff his safety line broke, allowing him to fall 125 feet to his death. Mr. Neely was 26 years old. The love for his job and providing care set him apart from other paramedics in the field.

Exalter Ruler/President of the Chattanooga Elks Lodge David Thompson, Sr. said, “This is the first Medal of Valor that our Lodge has presented. As a former HCEMS employee and member of our Elks Lodge, I am extremely proud that our Lodge supports and honors those who give of themselves to answer emergency calls and care for the individuals and families in our community. It is with great honor that we acknowledge the ultimate sacrifice given by flight paramedic Greg Neely and present his family with the National Grand Elks Lodge Medal of Valor.”
Living Well
CHI Memorial Hospital Georgia Obtains Hospital Accreditation
CHI Memorial Hospital Georgia Obtains Hospital Accreditation
  • 6/30/2025

CHI Memorial Hospital Georgia has successfully met the requirements for hospital accreditation from the Center for Improvement in Healthcare Quality (CIHQ). The hospital demonstrated compliance ... more

12 Senior Acts Selected For Morning Pointe Foundation’s Seniors Got Talent Chattanooga; Tickets On Sale Now
12 Senior Acts Selected For Morning Pointe Foundation’s Seniors Got Talent Chattanooga; Tickets On Sale Now
  • 6/27/2025

Singers, guitarists, a pianist and a bluegrass band will all take the stage on July 31 to compete for $1,000 in the Morning Pointe Foundation’s Seniors Got Talent variety show in Chattanooga. ... more

Backpack Blessings Drive At Morning Pointe At Happy Valley To Support Local School Children
Backpack Blessings Drive At Morning Pointe At Happy Valley To Support Local School Children
  • 6/26/2025

Morning Pointe at Happy Valley is stepping up to make sure local students head back to school with confidence—and a backpack full of supplies. In a heartfelt effort that brings generations ... more