2026 SESSION
ENROLLED
SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 41
Celebrating the life of William Robinson Akers, Jr.
Agreed to by the Senate, February 12, 2026
WHEREAS, William Robinson Akers, Jr., a devoted paramedic who worked diligently to advance the field of emergency medicine through his visionary leadership in training and education, died on August 22, 2024; and
WHEREAS, William “Bill” Akers dedicated his life to the service of others, inspiring students as a chemistry teacher at St. Paul High School and safeguarding the community as a longtime member and former captain of the Lebanon Lifesaving Crew; and
WHEREAS, in 1987, Bill Akers became one of the original paramedics associated with the Med-Flight II helicopter emergency medical services (EMS) program, and he continued to work as a flight paramedic for years to come; and
WHEREAS, Bill Akers shared his expertise with other EMS professionals as a training coordinator at the Southwest Virginia EMS Council; he was a passionate advocate for high-quality patient care and helped bring new training opportunities to regional agencies; and
WHEREAS, Bill Akers served on a variety of regional and state committees related to EMS education, and he grew the Southwest Virginia Paramedic Program from a single class in Richlands to a comprehensive educational system that spurred the creation of other paramedic courses throughout the region; and
WHEREAS, Bill Akers earned numerous awards and accolades for his personal and professional achievements, including the Governor's EMS Award for Excellence in Emergency Medical Services in 2023; and