03/23/2026
Technical Rock Recertification
3-21-26 - Apple Valley, CA
Your East Valley SAR team passed with flying colors for this years recert! Our scenario - To locate a hiker with medical issues who was up high on a steep slope, positioned on a narrow ledge above a vertical cliff. The team accessed the subject, provided medical assessment and care, and executed a technical litter-based rope lowering extraction.
The evolution began with a high-angle lower, transitioning into a moderate- to low-angle boulder field with intermittent steep drops. The operation covered approximately 400 feet and included a station-passing maneuver, with continuous patient care maintained throughout.
The mission was executed safely and successfully through careful planning, clear communication, effective delegation, technical proficiency, and strong team trust.
We wish to extend our thanks to West Valley Search and Rescue for hosting, Orange County Sheriff's Department, CA and Sierra Madre Search and Rescue Team for their thorough evaluation, and Ben from San Gorgonio Search and Rescue Team for serving as our subject.
It was a great day - team work really does make the dream work!
Photo credits: Antonio Arizo, Krista Franchi, Ian Roberts, Jared Graham and Roberto Del Frate
