Andersen units rescue injured hiker

  • Published
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam (AFNEWS) --  An Airman assigned to the 36th Expeditionary Operations Group was injured while hiking near the base beach Jan. 21 here.

The Airman was injured after falling approximately 10 to 15 feet while hiking on a downhill slope close to Tarague Beach, and three other hikers were able to call for emergency assistance via cell phone.

Through a quick and coordinated response, an Andersen fire and rescue team was able to stabilize the victim and determined he needed to be evacuated by air. Rescue officials contacted Navy Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Two Five based at Andersen AFB, which successfully airlifted the Airman to Naval Hospital Guam.

"Our fire rescue team and HSC-25 did a phenomenal job. This was an excellent example of the seamless joint operations at Andersen," said Col. Joel Westa, the 36th Wing vice commander. "The Airmen and Sailors' responsiveness and cooperation were exemplary in this situation, and I'm happy it turned out the way it did."

All four hikers had the proper hiking safety gear and hiking permits.

"By being properly prepared with the necessary safety equipment and permits, the Airmen did their part in the successful evacuation, and that's all we can ask for," said John Thompson, the Andersen AFB fire chief. "Hiking is a dangerous activity, and their preparation demonstrates the importance of having a plan."

The injured Airman is currently being treated at Naval Hospital Guam for an injury to his back and was listed in stable condition.

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