I debated on whether or not to respond, since I really don't know what to say.
While the Jayhawk that went down was a USCG D17 bird and I am in a USAF ANG Rescue Squadron, we are both up here in Alaska. Both units (as DKmacin can attest) do some pretty interesting missions throughout the year, and we work very close together sometimes conducting joint missions. A particular mission I worked on Ptarmigan Peak is a good example. A University of Alaska climbing class fell/slid down a 70* slope and were pretty busted up. We had our Pavehawk, an ARNG Blackhawk, and a Lifeguard BK117 involved. The SAR community is a high-demand/low-density asset and when a bird goes down or we lose someone, generally you either knew them or had worked with them in the past. It's very easy to get caught up in the job...that's to say you don't often hear back from the folks you rescue, but on occasion you do and it's pretty cool. It also makes you reflect on what it is that you do for a living.
Now here comes the corney party so bear with me because it's actually true...most folks (USCG, Civilian, USAF, etc..) make a career out of SAR not for the money or any other thing. It becomes truely a calling. I love what I do because I enjoy the feeling I have after making a successful recovery (and they're not all successful). I love the camaraderie, and I enjoy the challenges that come with each mission (peacetime or combat) and the opportunities to think outside the box. I love the fact that I can do all this and still support a family.
I hope you all understand that it's hard for me to take cudos simply because I love what I do. Since joining this forum I have met (albeit via e-mails and postings) some great folks. Everyone is always so helpful and quick to assist fellow modelers. I consider you all friends and anytime you find yourself up here in the last frontier, give me a buzz and I'll show you around.
I am honored and humbled by your kind words, and extend them to everyone in the SAR/Emergency Response arena.
Salbando