Army National Guard launching UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter to aid in search for missing hikers
At approximately 9:15 today , one UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter will depart from the Army Aviation Support Facility in Salem, Ore. to aid in the search for the three missing hikers on Mt. Hood.
Current plans will have the Blackhawk and crew reposition to the Hood River, Ore. airport where they will meet with representatives of the Hood River Sheriff's Office for briefings on the current situation on the mountain. The crew will consist of a pilot, co-pilot, crew chief and flight medic.
Weather permitting they will attempt to locate a landing zone at a higher elevation to reposition the airframe. This would allow for faster response time to transport additional ground crews and equipment higher up the mountain or to launch an aerial search. Weather will play a large part in the search efforts and determining use of the Blackhawk.
Additional information will be posted as it becomes available.
Contact:
Capt Mike Braibish
503-584-3886,
cell 503-932-5805
Kay Fristad
503-584-3917
cell 503-931-5179
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