Search and Rescue

Hal Foss Award

Congratulations, belatedly, to a friend of mine Cheryl Kennedy. Cheryl was the recipient of this year's Hal Foss award, given by the National Association of Search and Rescue. According to their website the award "is the most prestigious award presented by NASAR." A life member of Larimer County Search and Rescue and substantial contributor to the Larimer County Sheriff's Support Team, Cheryl has been extremely dedicated to the furthering of search and rescue in northern Colorado and across the country. I have many fond memories

More Sadness

The sad news comes this morning that Phil Calvert of the San Gorgonio Search and Rescue team has passed away from injuries suffered in Sunday's accident. Calvert and Scott Johnson's names will be added to the memorial slide show that will be shown at next year's MRA convention. Here is last year's MRA Memorial Slide Show.

Meanwhile the search that prompted the call has an added homicide investigation as police pursue the possibility of foul play.

Thank you and farewell

This morning brought the sad news of the passing of Scott Johnston, 30 of Redlands. Johnson was one of five people in a vehicle responding to Joshua Tree National Monument to continue the search for a missing hiker. The five were in a county Suburban and were hit head on by a Ford Ranger that crossed the center line.

The tragedy is a somber reminder to those who have dedicated a part of their lives to this wonderful pursuit just how dangerous it is. Even the most careful of responders counts on a great deal of good fortune in making it home each time they are called to serve. In the brief time that I too was a part of this wonderful line of service I can count many times were the safety margin was razor thin and perseverance and good fortune have more to do with the outcome than wide safety factors that all would like to claim.

Firepower photos

The Sierra Tarn Gallery has photos from the 2004 Firepower Demonstration on the Nellis AFB range today. A spectacular show including a complete combat search and rescue (CSAR) demonstration. Thanks to the Air Force for allowing us to attend.

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