When the job calls for more than a standard response, MEMS Special Teams step in. These teams bring added training, specialized equipment, and mission-specific capabilities to incidents across Central Arkansas and beyond. From tactical medicine and hazardous environments to disaster communications, ceremonial service, and rapid event response, each team extends MEMS’ ability to serve when conditions are complex, crowded, or high risk. Together, they represent a deeper level of readiness — built to support patients, partner agencies, and the communities that count on us.
The MEMS Honor Guard proudly participates in a variety of events that honor, remember, and celebrate the dedication of first responders. From solemn ceremonies to public celebrations, our team ensures that the sacrifices and service of EMS personnel are recognized with dignity. MEMS is proud to work alongside other state honor guards and often works with NorthStar EMS' Honor Guard to create a joint guard for state events. Below are some of the key events where the MEMS Honor Guard is honored to serve.


Every member of the MEMS Bike Team is a licensed EMT or Paramedic and undergoes regular mandatory training and riding days to maintain fitness. The team specializes in providing rapid response at events that draw large crowds or cover extensive areas. These include, but are not limited to:
Also known as "The Mad Hatters", SORT is an elite team of EMTs and Paramedics specializing in high-risk emergency response. Trained in HAZMAT, Swift Water Rescue, Mass Casualty Incidents, High-Impact Incidents, and Search & Rescue (SAR), team members go beyond traditional EMS roles to provide lifesaving support in extreme conditions.


The primary mission of the STAR Team is to be present in the "hot zone" during dangerous, high-risk incidents, ensuring emergency medical care is readily available to officers and civilians in these volatile environments. Their rapid response and on-site medical expertise help mitigate risks in critical moments, providing life-saving care where it's needed most, often in the midst of law enforcement operations such as SWAT raids, hostage situations, and active shooter events.
Although all members are certified law enforcement officers, they do not conduct arrests. Their certification is solely to ensure they are knowledgeable in law enforcement tactics and training, allowing them to operate effectively within the high-stakes environment of tactical operations.
The MEMS Disaster Communications Team utilizes advanced equipment and expertise to provide critical communication support for first responders, emergency services, and local government agencies, ensuring a seamless exchange of vital information, even in the most challenging conditions. The team uses a variety of UHF and VHF public safety frequencies for both training and field operations, enhancing their ability to respond effectively in real-world scenarios.
In addition to their core operations, team members are licensed HAM Radio Technicians. MEMS DOES NOT use HAM Radio frequencies for routine communications. The licensing is essential for two reasons: 1) It establishes a standard to ensure team members have a solid understanding of radio operations, and 2) It allows communication with HAM radio operators in the field during emergencies, ensuring coordination during disasters should the need arise

MEMS Crisis Assistance Team is a group of people who care about their fellow emergency responders, are continually working toward their own healthy mental states, and are willing to help others experiencing difficult situations (personal and professional) through shared understanding, respect, and empowerment. MCAT members understand the importance of confidentiality and trust. They provide emotional support when appropriate and refer out when they need to. All MCAT Members have received certified training to be apart of this team. The team is comprised of members in different departments;
Bike Team
matthew.krikorian@metroems.org
501.301.1400

Disaster Communications
aaron.gilkey@metoems.org
501-400-4617

Honor Guard
carrie.steward@metroems.org
501.301.1449

MCAT
janie.brown@metroems.org
501.301.1400

SORT
macy.bratton@metroems.org
501.301.1400

STAR Team
cody.hughes@metroems.org
501.301.1467

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