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Air Squadron |
The Air Squadron is a valuable assest to our search and rescue operations, and has been
in existence since 1954. It is comprised of pilots, aircraft owners, and observers from
around the county, who jump to action, and provide "Eyes in the Sky", when the need arises.
Whether looking for downed aircraft, or missing persons in remote areas, these folks
have a special vantage point, can cover great areas in a short period of time, and assist
with communications, and help coordinate ground search efforts.
The Air Squadron is made up of people who enjoy flying, and in the process of staying
current as pilots, or training and participating in search and rescue operations,
form a great camaraderie. To them, it's not all work, it's great fun too! In addition to
SAR activities, they plan and partake in as many social activities, and fun flying events as time and
weather permits.
Typical events are: Trips to out of the way places like Shelter cove and Trinity center.
We also have some flying contests like accurate message drops and spot landing trials in Boonville.
We are looking for new members. Do you enjoy flying? If your answer is yes, we would like for
you to come join us. There is no reqirement that you own an aircraft, or even know how to pilot one.
You are also welcome to join us as an observer. You are the perfect candidate if you love to fly,
want a little excitement, and would like to make a difference in helping our community.
What are you waiting for? Come join the team.
Ukiah Daily Journal |
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These members of the Mendocino County Sheriff's Search and Rescue units will be
among those gathered Saturday, Feb. 9th at the Grange Hall in Willits for dinner,
and a joint installation of officers. They represent the Sheriff's Posse, Air Squadron,
Four Wheel Drive Patrol and the Under-Water Squad.
Starting From the left, they
include Don King , public relations for the group, holding some of the underwater gear
of Ed Enzier, Next in line: Irvin Brown of the Four wheel drive patrol;
Larry Brown, Search coordinator; Sheriff Tim Shea; Duell Parks, Air Squadron Commander;
and Bobby Tilley, Commander of the Mounted Posse with horse Dolly.
Shea said the groups are a tremendous asset to the sheriff's office. They save
virtually thousands of dollars every year by donating their time, and equipment in
search and rescue. If it weren't for these groups, The Sheriff's department would be
hard pressed. They do a superb job.
Shea noted that in addition to helping in actual
searches , the units put considerable time doing hands-on type training, as well as
having an occasional social event, like the one planned for Saturday.
They are a dedicated group, he said. He was anxious that the public know that this team is always
in need of special equipment to find the lost and save lives. A few dollars toward
search and rescue equipment for these units is a darn good investment he concluded.
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Mendocino County Airports
