07/04/2026
On July 1, 2026, one of our firefighters was climbing North Apostle Mountain, a Colorado 13er in the Sawatch Range, when an approximately 400-pound boulder became dislodged, crushing and pinning their leg.
Through incredible determination—and what was described as some "primal adrenaline"—they were able to free themselves. Knowing their injuries were severe, they activated an emergency call for help.
Because of the remote location, steep terrain, and high elevation, a traditional ground rescue would have been extremely difficult. A High Altitude Army Aviation Training Site (HAATS) Black Hawk helicopter was deployed from Gypsum. HAATS trains military aviators from around the world to operate in high-altitude and challenging mountain environments, and their professionalism and skill are truly second to none.
The HAATS crew picked up two technical rescuers from Mountain Rescue Aspen's hoist team, whose expertise has been instrumental in countless high-angle and alpine rescues across Colorado.
While awaiting rescue, our firefighter remained in contact with a member of Vail Mountain Rescue through the iPhone satellite texting feature. That rescuer was able to relay critical information—including location, injuries, and terrain conditions—to the helicopter crew.
At the same time, Chaffee County Search and Rescue North mobilized ground resources in case weather or terrain prevented the helicopter from accessing the scene.
The Black Hawk arrived at approximately 5:25 p.m. After assessing the landing zone, the crew inserted the two Mountain Rescue Aspen technicians on a 300-foot hoist line. They quickly splinted the broken leg, packaged our firefighter, and safely hoisted them into the aircraft for transport.
Our firefighter is recovering and is incredibly grateful for the skill, professionalism, and compassion shown by everyone involved. Incidents like this are a powerful reminder that even those who dedicate their lives to helping others sometimes need help themselves.
We would also like to recognize one of the HAATS pilots, who responded to this rescue during the final hours of an extraordinary military career. After completing the mission, he received a traditional military honor of a water canon over the helicopter. The Eagle County Airport Fire Rescue (ARFF) crew performed the "salute" to commemorate his "fini flight"—his final flight before retirement. It is a fitting tribute to a career spent serving others.
This week has been a reminder of what makes the emergency services community so special. We are always Ready to Serve, but this week reminded us that none of us do this job alone. We are fortunate to be surrounded by incredible partners who answer the call whenever help is needed.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to everyone who made this rescue possible:
• High Altitude Army Aviation Training Site (HAATS) Black Hawk pilots and crew
• Mountain Rescue Aspen hoist team
• Chaffee County Search and Rescue North
• Vail Mountain Rescue Group
• Chaffee County EMS
• Vail Health Emergency Department and surgical team
• Eagle Valley Wildland (for assisting with mapping and location coordinates)
• Eagle County Airport Fire Rescue (ARFF)
• And everyone else who played a role behind the scenes—we know there were many.
Your professionalism, teamwork, and selfless service made all the difference. We are forever grateful.
Thank you for taking care of one of our own!
