Beaverhead County Search & Rescue News

This past week the Beaverhead Search and Rescue held its monthly meeting under the direction of commander, Lawrence Morrisroe. Roll call was completed and the introduction of guests, Dan Wyatt and James Matthews. Both are very interested in becoming members. James has already submitted an application. Once both applications have been received and approved, they will become probationary members for a period of one year.

Nathan Freeman, training officer, explained the training opportunities coming up in the following months. Swift water training will take place in May and is in conjunction with Madison County S&R. Search manager training is still on the agenda for the next month or so. During our next meeting training will be provided by Dillon Martial Arts, in order for members to be trained in self-defense. We will be holding our summer training camp out in June. Gayle Rawson, Lawrence, and Nathan will be coordinating that event. Each member of the organization is required to have 15 hours of training per year. Since the meeting, Nathan Freeman has asked to be relieved of his training officer duties due to changes in his very active life. Nathan has done an outstanding job in this position. Thank you Nate for all your hard work and efforts in keeping the membership trained and active. Nate will remain as an active member of the unit.

Once again there have been no searches or rescues during the last month. It is nice to have this continued reprieve but at the same time we cannot become complaisant. With the number of individuals using Beaverhead County as their recreation grounds, it is only a matter of time before we are activated. It is also with regret that we have to postpone the annual S&R auction for another year.

For the good of the order, Dan Cahill, Alex Dunn, and Tyler Grover have all been voted to permanent membership status after completing their probationary year. Congratulations to these three fine new members. They have already been very active and an integral part of BVHD S&R unit. Brian DeMars has turned in his letter of resignation. Brian has been a very active member and a past commander along with other positions. He has been an active member since January 1990. Brian was one individual no one ever wanted to ground search with, especially in deep snow, because of his long legs. He could go forever, maybe he still can… Thank you Brian for 32 years of service to the group.

It is quite apparent that spring is not here yet. Please be careful out there and make sure you are prepared for the worst whenever venturing out in the great outdoors. Whether hiking , 4 wheeling, fishing or any other number of activities, be safe. I’m sure there are lots of drifts out there, avalanches are still a great concern, and thin ice is very scary. Take Care, “In the Business of Saving Lives” your Beaverhead Search and Rescue.

Submitted by: Mel Rice-Public Relations