Search and Rescue celebrates 50 years

Published 10:15 am Wednesday, May 27, 2015

King County Search and Rescue hosted this year’s state Search and Rescue conference, May 16 and 17 in Carnation. This is the King County organization’s 50th anniversary year.

More than 340 participants, some coming from Iceland, North Carolina, California and Virginia, attended the conference for training, information and a public open house Saturday morning.

A boy checks out a rescue net at the Search and Rescue open house in Carnation, May 16. – Courtesy Photo

Participating groups included Seattle Mountain Rescue, King County Explorer Search and Rescue, King County Search Dogs, Skagit County ATV Search and Rescue, Pierce County 4×4 and Washington Animal Response Team. Helicopters were also on display during the open house, King County Guardian 2, Snohomish County Snohawk 10 and NAS Whidbey craft.

Volunteer Jon Wartes was recognized for his 58 years volunteering with search and rescue. He still rescues injured hikers and was involved in the rescue of an injured woman at the top of Mailbox Peak last month. Wartes has also been a King County Reserve Deputy since July 11, 1969.

Search and Rescue open house in Carnation, May 16. – Courtesy Photo