Rescuers go to the dogs

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Bryon McGarry
  • 354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
EIELSON AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska (AFPN) --  As Sammy sat atop Eagle Summit in February, stranded due to a snowstorm at the Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race, he may have wondered to himself, “How did I get myself into this mess, and more importantly, how am I going to get myself out?” 

Luckily, Airmen from Eielson Air Force Base answered that question for him. Members of Det. 1 of the 210th Rescue Squadron rescued Sammy and his associates from the summit, braving rough terrain and inclement weather to ensure the race participants could compete another day. 

At an appreciation ceremony at the base June 1, Sammy thanked the aircrew that saved him with hearty handshakes and appreciative face licks. 

Sammy was one of 89 dogs that were rescued by the 210th RQS that day, in addition to six mushers who also were stranded. Members of the Yukon Quest board of directors presented the 210th RQS with a shadow box in appreciation of their efforts. 

“We’re honored by the gesture of thanks,” said Maj. Bill Kupchin, detachment commander. “It’s a rare opportunity to participate in a mission like this and I’m proud to have been a part of it.” 

The 210th’s rescue efforts were bolstered by support from rescue specialists from the Alaska Air National Guard's 176th Wing at Kulis ANG Base in Anchorage. Lt. Col. Dave Looney, 176th Wing flight safety officer and pilot of the HH-60 Pave Hawk that made the rescue, said the mission is one he will never forget. 

Aliy Zirkle, owner of several of the rescued dogs, thanked the aircrew for their efforts.
 
“The rescue was very emotional,” she said. “These dogs are the heart and soul of the race and the racers, and it means the world to have them back safe.” 

Colonel Looney had a moment to find humor in the rescue when he turned around and found a dog standing on an instrument console staring back at him. 

“We had about 25 dogs in there on one trip,” he said. “We basically had to load them, close the door and then stuff them through the window. One of them apparently got fed up and wandered toward the front of the cockpit to see if he could get some breathing room.” 

Colonel Looney politely patted his curious visitor on the head and ushered him back to the general dog population waiting area. After toughing out waits as long as 24 hours, all 89 dogs and all six mushers returned home safely. 

Major Kupchin put the rescue mission into perspective for the ceremony crowd.
 
“Between Colonel Looney and me, we must have about 8,000 flight hours and 200-plus missions,” he said. “I think I can honestly say that this mission will always be one of our most rewarding.”