Hardeman County Receives Life-Saving AEDs Through ThreeStar Grant

10/20/2026 County Commission

Pictured L to R: Ambulance Director Rusty Thigpen, Chief Deputy Ben Davis, Sheriff Antonio Parham, Mayor Todd Pulse, Commissioner Johnny Lanier

Hardeman County has begun receiving new automated external defibrillators (AEDs) through its ThreeStar grant, providing additional life-saving equipment to help improve emergency response throughout the county.

During the October 20, 2026, County Commission meeting, Ambulance Director Rusty Thigpen reported that the first phase of the grant included 16 AED units and 14 more are excepted to be received with phase two of the grant. Fifteen of the devices have already been placed with the sheriff’s department.

Thigpen said the devices have already been put to use over the past several months, with 5 units being used in just the last month, demonstrating their importance in emergency situations.

AEDs are designed to assist individuals experiencing sudden cardiac arrest by delivering an electrical shock when needed to help restore a normal heart rhythm.

The new devices also feature technology that allows Thigpen to monitor their use remotely. When an AED is opened, an automatic email notification is sent, allowing Thigpen to review information about the device and its use.

Mayor Todd Pulse emphasized the importance of having AEDs available throughout rural Hardeman County, where quick access to life-saving equipment can make a critical difference while emergency responders are on their way.

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