U.S. Congressman Chuck Edwards has nominated the team from the Greenville-Spartanburg National Weather Service for the prestigious 2025 Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Medals, known as the Sammies.
Edwards praised their “extraordinary dedication and expertise” during the crisis of Hurricane Helene. “Helene tragically claimed 250 lives across the southwestern United States, 107 of which were in Western North Carolina, but this death toll would have been far higher without the team’s efforts,” he stated. Edwards emphasized the crucial role the team’s early warnings and guidance played, noting that “thousands of residents across multiple states were able to evacuate or take protective measures before the storm hit Western North Carolina.”
Highlighting the team’s proactive approach, Edwards said, “The Greenville-Spartanburg NWS team’s actions, marked by innovation and excellence, underscored the importance of proactive preparation, effective communication, and interagency collaboration in protecting communities from extreme weather events.” He added, “By setting a high standard for public service, the Greenville-Spartanburg NWS team not only saved lives during Hurricane Helene, but they also established a benchmark for how federal agencies should respond to future disasters. I’m proud to nominate them for the Sammies award.”
The Sammies honor exceptional federal employees whose work has significantly benefited the nation and enhanced public trust in the government.
