Rescue squadron saves lives

Dennis L. Clay Herald Columnist | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 7 years, 10 months AGO

Dennis L. Clay photo Here are a few of the many members of the 36th Rescue Squadron, along with a couple of wives and children, stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base. The other members were flying or had other duties for the day. The 36th commander, Lt. Col Jason Snyder, is on the far right.

Garnet and I support the 36th Rescue Squadron as Honorary Commanders. The squadron flies several UH-1, Huey, helicopters, most of them are from the Vietnam era.

When a search and rescue mission is initiated and a Huey is involved in eastern Washington, northern Idaho and western Montana, the bird is most likely from the 36th. They have been involved with two or three search missions in the Columbia Basin during the past year.

Last Friday we attended the Annual Chili Cookoff. The unit heritage room is called Skid Row. Yes, the Skid Row sign is attached to an actual Huey skid.

There may be a chance for the 36th or/and other Fairchild units to come to Moses Lake for a training day. If so, I will let everyone know, so all who desire can participate.

Scenario: The 36th, and perhaps another Air Force unit or two, travel to Moses Lake for what they call a “Training Day.” After the training part of the day is complete, Columbia Basin citizens could treat the airmen to a potluck/hamburger/hot dog feed.

Another scenario: During this year's Freedom Fest, the new Moses Lake celebration near the Fourth of July, we invite the Fairchild Commander, along with some airmen, to participate in the celebration.

When Larson AFB was here, the Moses Lake mayor and the Larson commander would hold a horseshoe pitching contest on the Fourth. Perhaps this contest could be renewed during the Freedom Fest celebration.