Apr. 18, 2006
By Captain Cheryl Robinson
19 WING COMOX – A hiker who crawled eight kilometres with a broken leg was rescued by Air Force Search and Rescue personnel from 19 Wing Comox yesterday.
Poor weather conditions, heavy rain and turbulent winds hampered Air Force and Coast Guard rescue efforts for an injured hiker in Cape Scott Provincial Park last night, Apr 17; however, a CH-149 Cormorant search and rescue crew’s efforts in 65-knot winds prevailed at first light, Apr 18, and the crew was able to land the helicopter on the beach at San Josef Bay, where the injured 48-year-old male was waiting.
According to the Search and Rescue Technicians (SAR Techs) who attended the injured hiker, he had slipped between logs while carrying a heavy pack and fractured his leg. He was unable to walk and the wet weather impeded his efforts to create a useable crutch or splint. He then crawled approximately eight kilometers to the beach, where he spotted the fire of a couple camping at the beach. The couple hiked out approximately an hour and a half to get cell phone coverage, called for assistance, and then returned to provide protection from the elements for the injured man in their tent while the three waited for rescuers.
The Joint Rescue Coordination Centre received the request for assistance. Duty officers launched the Cormorant from 19 Wing and the Coast Guard coastal patrol vessel Gordon Reid from Victoria. The Cormorant encountered engine problems and had to land in Port Hardy, so a second Cormorant was immediately launched to pick up the SAR Techs in Port Hardy and then the crew carried on to San Josef Bay.
The Cormorant crew made numerous efforts in the darkness to get to the injured hiker using night vision goggles and the night sun (searchlight), but was unable to due to extreme weather conditions.
“We tried throughout the night to get to the beach, but were unable due to the weather,” said Sgt. Jean Tremblay, SAR Tech team lead. “We decided to set down at Port Hardy for some rest and wait for daybreak. When the sun came up, it was safer for the crew and for the hiker to get in to the beach.
“We had to land and walk in, since it was far too windy to hoist anyone safely to the helicopter. We splinted the patient and began medical protocols. He was in good spirits! He was in good shape and didn’t give up, which is key in a survival situation. He said his arms were tired, but he was doing well.”
The Cormorant returned to 19 Wing Comox, where the hiker was taken by ambulance to St. Joseph’s General Hospital.
Cormorant crew: Capt. Dave Stelfox, aircraft commander, Capt. Rob Mulholland, first officer, Master Cpl, Brian Schoneberg flight engineer, Sgts. Jean Tremblay and Rob Beauchamp, SAR Techs.
