05/21/2026
Earlier today, members of the Spencer Hospital Ambulance team, Spencer Police Department, and the Clay County Sheriff's Office had the exciting opportunity to surprise City of Spencer, Iowa dispatcher Andrea Ring with a very special recognition. Andrea was presented with a “Stork Pin,” an honor often given in EMS to recognize those who assist with childbirth emergencies. The pin, traditionally worn on a uniform or name tag, represents the birth of a child and recognizes Andrea’s calm and compassionate role during the call.
In March, emergency responders from Spencer Hospital, Dickens Fire & Rescue, and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a patient in active labor along Highway 18 near Dickens, Iowa. Before crews arrived, the mother delivered her baby along the side of the highway while dispatcher Andrea Ring calmly guided and supported the family over the phone.
According to Dispatch Supervisor Mel Peterson, “We have no instructions for handling emergency childbirths; this was ALL Andrea, who has birthed five children of her own.”
Mom and baby were safely transported to Spencer Hospital, where they were welcomed by Birth Center staff and Dr. Jochims upon arrival.
Dispatchers are often the unseen heroes behind emergency response, working tirelessly behind the scenes without always knowing the outcome of the calls they handle. Today, Andrea was recognized for staying calm under pressure and helping bring a new life safely into the world.
Thank you, Andrea, for your compassion, quick thinking, and dedication to our community.
