![Episode 184 [Full] Kelly Gordon, USCG Rescue Swimmer #02](https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts124/v4/0b/51/6c/0b516c1d-b495-28e2-6109-51ea539cd367/mza_6723870279279401268.jpg/250x250bb.jpg)
Episodes
-
In this special ASTerisks episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn welcomes back Dave Weber, experienced National Park Climbing Ranger and flight paramedic. With his time divided between the rugged landscapes of Teton National Park in Wyoming and Denali National Park in Alaska, Dave brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the conversation.
Fresh off the 4th Annual Helicopter Hoist Operator (HHO) Symposium and Goodrich User Conference in Baden-Baden, Germany, Weber and I took the opportunity to sit down and capture one of his insightful presentations on Team Dynamics. Having delivered this talk at various conferences and venues, Dave's expertise in the field is well-established, and this time we wanted to bring it directly to our listeners.
What makes this episode particularly special is the personal touch Dave adds to the conversation. He tells a real-life rescue story in which he and his teammate played a pivotal role. His firsthand account serves as a powerful proof of concept for how effective team dynamics can be in high-pressure situations. Whether you're part of a rescue team, work in a corporate setting, or lead any group, this episode offers valuable insights you can apply to your own team.
This is an engaging and educational discussion on how to strengthen team performance and enhance collaboration in any environment. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Axnes, Spectrolab and Breeze-Eastern.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical Helicasts. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn is joined by Joe Sarber and Bob Yanacsek, founders of FROST.
FROST is a company that provides Fast Response Operational Safety Teams (FROST) for airshows. They specialize in creating a safe environment and providing immediate support in case of incidents or emergencies. The team consists of first responders and firefighters who are trained in aircraft rescue and firefighting.
The team strategically sets up their equipment and vehicles near the runway to ensure a quick response time. FROST also acts as a consultant to local fire departments, providing them with extraction plans and guidance on handling aircraft-related incidents. The team travels to airshows across the United States and has a close-knit relationship with the performers and other industry professionals.
FROST has responded to various incidents at airshows, including a plane that accidentally shut off its engine mid-air, a plane swap gone wrong, and a crowd member who had a stroke and hit his head. They have also been recognized with two awards: the Pinnacle Award for Service Providers in the International Council of Air Shows (ICAST) in 2018, and the Des Barker Safety Award in 2022. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Axnes, Spectorlab and Ready Swimmer.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical Helicasts. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
Missing episodes?
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn is joined by Joe Sarber, a firefighter from Georgia.
They discuss Sarber's journey to becoming a firefighter. He shares a story about his first structure fire and all the rookie mistakes he made. He also discusses the challenges and lessons he learned from these experiences, highlighting the importance of teamwork and continuous learning in the fire service.
Sarber tells about a rescue he and his team pulled out of an active fire. They had to go into the house, find the victim, and pull the victim to safety. They accomplished this task and their rescue earned him a Public Safety Appreciation Award from the Paulding County Board of Commissioners.
Sarber talks in great detail about the trench rescue call he responded to as a firefighter. He describes the challenges and dangers involved in it and the specialized training required to execute these types of rescues.
Sarber explains how they called in a neighboring county's department with a semi truck setup for trench rescue to assist. He recounts the process of shoring up the walls and using a vacuum truck to remove dirt around the patient. The rescue involved cutting holes in the walls of two houses under construction to create a lifting point.
We conclude our conversation with Sarber expressing the impact of the experience on him and his desire to learn more about trench rescues. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Collins Aerospace, PAG and Bell.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical Helicasts. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn is joined by James Murad, a firefighter paramedic from Florida.
Murad discusses receiving the PuroClean Superhero Award and the surprise of being nominated for a national award. We also recount his first significant calls, including a cardiac alert and a trauma code. He emphasizes the importance of thorough assessments and the need to expose patients to properly treat them.
Murad shares a particularly challenging call involving a motor vehicle crash on the Fourth of July, where multiple children were injured. He reflects on the emotional impact of losing a patient and the difficulty of comforting the family in such situations.
Murad shares a few more intense and memorable experiences from his career as a firefighter. A young girl suffered internal bleeding and became a trauma alert and a building collapsed in Surfside, Florida, where he was involved in the recovery efforts. He emphasizes the importance of appreciating where you are in your career while still striving for growth and advancement. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Breeze-Eastern, Spectrolab and Ready Swimmer.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical Helicasts. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ Podcast, host Jason Quinn is joined by an entire U.S. Coast Guard Crew: Pilots Ryan O’Neill and Adam Ownbey; flight mechanic Peter Gaudet; and Spencer Manson, Rescue Swimmer No. 999.
The crew recounts their experience of saving six lives during a rescue mission. Facing challenging conditions, including hurricane-force winds and 20-foot seas, as they located a disabled sailboat with six people on board.
The crew had to devise a plan to hoist the rescue swimmer, Spencer, down to the water and then onto the moving sailboat. The team worked together to overcome the obstacles and successfully rescued all the survivors.
The crew members were recognized for their heroic actions and awarded Air Medals and a Distinguished Flying Cross.
Spencer recounts his experience of being hoisted in the water and his struggle to climb onto a passing sailboat. The helicopter crew had their own concerns about fuel and the decision to send the rescue basket to retrieve Spencer.
Once the crew successfully hoisted Spencer and a survivor from the water, they made their way back to shore; however, the rescue did not end there. As soon as they landed, the crew needed to prepare to go back out to help rescue the remaining people on the boat.
The crew discusses details of the rescue operation and reflects on what they would do differently if they ever found themselves once again in a similar situation. They talk about the challenges of communication and coordination with multiple assets involved in the rescue.
The crew emphasizes the importance of training outside of their comfort zones and practicing new techniques. They also highlight the need to carefully consider the risks and benefits of disconnecting the swimmer from the hoist cable. Overall, the team shares their experiences and lessons learned from the rescue. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Switlik, Breeze-Eastern, and Axnes.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical Helicasts. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by Adam Sustachek, a United States Coast Guard flight mechanic. He shares his experiences and rescues during his 25-year career in the Coast Guard.
Sustachek discusses his background and how he joined the military. He talks about his time stationed in various locations, including Sitka, Alaska, and Elizabeth City, North Carolina. He recounts his first rescue and the challenges he faced during the mission. He also shares the details of a daring night rescue in severe weather conditions, which earned him a Coast Guard Commendation Medal.
We discuss his experiences during Hurricane Katrina and his deployment to New Orleans. He talks about the challenges they faced, including the long flight from San Diego to Louisiana, and the limited tools and facilities they had. He also describes the devastation they witnessed and the rescue missions they conducted, including finding an elderly man who had been stranded in his flooded house. He emphasizes the resilience of the people of Louisiana and the support they received from the local community.
Sustachek recounts a rescue mission where they had to navigate treacherous conditions to save three fishermen stranded on rocks, and one where he had to rescue a group of people stranded on a foggy island.
Sustachek also discusses the emotional toll of losing colleagues in helicopter accidents and the importance of maintaining a high level of vigilance and preparedness in the field. He emphasizes the opportunities for personal and professional growth in the Coast Guard and encourages others to step outside their comfort zones. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Collins Aerospace, Bell and Switlik.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical Helicasts. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by Curt Newport, a deep ocean search and recovery expert in salvaging wreckage from underwater incidents.
Newport discusses his background growing up in a military family and how he got into diving and deep water recovery. He recounts his first salvage operation after Air India Flight 182 went down off the coast of Ireland in 1985. He also talks about his involvement in the recovery of fragments from the Challenger space shuttle and TWA Flight 800.
Newport's book, 'Ready to Dive,' provides detailed accounts of his various operations. Working on recovery missions for military aircraft and torpedoes. The challenges of working in the Gulf Stream and the current and weather conditions they had to navigate. He also shares anecdotes about his time on the recovery ships.
Newport also mentions his involvement in the recovery of a C-2A Greyhound aircraft in the Philippine Sea and the difficulties they encountered in recovering the remains of the flight crew. He shares stories of crashes and the difficulties of recovering wreckage from the ocean floor. Newport also mentions his interest in racing and his experiences as a racing driver. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Spectrolab, Axnes and PAG.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical Helicasts. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by John Whiddon, a former United States Coast Guard pilot.
Whiddon shares experiences and stories from his career. He talks about his journey to becoming a pilot and the training that he received from experienced veterans. He recounts his first rescue as a pilot, which involved the famous band Lynyrd Skynyrd. He also shares a humorous story about an incident involving a relief tube in the cockpit.
Whiddon also discusses his time in Alaska and the challenging rescues he was involved in. These rescues earned him two Distinguished Flying Crosses for his heroic actions. One of the first missions involved the rescue of 20 survivors from a stricken passenger vessel that had caught fire in the Gulf of Alaska. Despite challenging weather conditions and limited visibility, he skillfully guided the helicopter to safely hoist the survivors to safety.
Our conversation continues with a story where Whidden and his crew faced extreme weather conditions and saved two lives from the fishing vessel Bluebird. As we discuss this mission, he highlights the challenges of hovering over the ocean at night and the importance of having a rescue swimmer. Whiddon emphasizes the role of faith and divine intervention in the successful outcome of the mission. The crew received numerous awards and recognition for their heroic actions. John also discusses the importance of creating a safe environment for pilots and aircrew to seek help when needed. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ: Spectrolab, Ready Swimmer and The Real ResQ Store.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical Helicasts. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by Sean Daniell, a Canadian SARTech (search-and-rescue technician). They discuss Daniell’s background, his training as a SARTech, and some of the intense experiences he has had in the field.
Daniell shares stories of rescues, survival training, and his work as a paramedic. He highlights the physical and mental challenges faced by SARTechs and the importance of their role in saving lives. Daniell discusses his training as a SARTech and his experiences in the field. He talks about the importance of acclimatizing to the cold and learning survival skills in the Arctic. He also shares his training in diving, water survival, and parachuting.
Daniell recounts his first rescue mission, which involved a plane crash, and discusses the challenging and sometimes gruesome aspects of search-and-rescue operations. He discusses his progression as a SARTech and the responsibilities that come with different roles. He shares a rescue mission that haunted him and reflects on the experience of pronouncing someone dead. He also talks about his training at the Advanced Helicopter Rescue School (AHRS) in Astoria, Oregon, and the valuable skills he learned there. He mentions the camaraderie between Canadian and U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmers and the importance of specialized training.
In this final part of the conversation, Daniell talks about a rescue mission in the mountains where they had to perform a vehicle extraction and rope rescue. He also shares a training scenario in Okanagan Lake where they ended up getting stuck in the mud. Daniell discusses the importance of cross-training with other countries and shares his experiences working with the Swiss, and also the country of Iceland. He concludes by talking about his own injuries and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ:
Bell, Spectrolab, AEM and The Real ResQ Store.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical Helicasts. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by Luke Johnson, U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer #766.
Johnson shares many of his experiences and rescues. While stationed in Puerto Rico, he recounts a rescue mission involving 34 illegal immigrants, who had been abandoned by smugglers on Isla Monito. Johnson also describes a cruise ship rescue where he hoisted an elderly heart attack victim from the ship. Additionally, he shares a unique experience of being left on Palomino Island after rescuing a fisherman. Stranded on the island, he was forced to row a boat back to shore in the Caribbean. Another story focuses on a more intense rescue operation where Johnson saved three lives after a boat capsized in rough waters.
We had fun talking about his experiences working in Hollywood, participating in the Amazing Race, and training with NASA. He also discusses his transition out of the Coast Guard and his current career in safety and risk management.
Johnson emphasizes the importance of recognizing the value of military skills in the civilian world and being open to new opportunities. He also highlights the significance of CPR training and the potential to save lives in emergency situations. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ:
Breeze-Eastern, Axnes, Ready Swimmer and The Real ResQ Store.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical Helicasts. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined once again by Harry Knight, former Navy Rescue Swimmer.
In this part of the conversation, Jason and Harry discuss Harry's passion for CPR and his extensive volunteer work. Harry shares his personal experiences with CPR and how it has made a significant impact on people's lives. He also talks about the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal that he received for his volunteer service.
Despite going through tough times, Harry turned them into a positive by dedicating his time to help others. Harry discusses his experience as a volunteer in the Southern Maryland fire and emergency medical services. He talks about the importance of volunteering and the training opportunities that it provides. He also shares stories of his first EMS call and a memorable call involving a child.
Harry emphasizes the need for constant awareness and readiness as a first responder, as well as the importance of communication and coordination with law enforcement. In this part of the conversation, Harry shares two significant incidents that he witnessed. The first incident occurred in 1996, when he responded to a car crash and saved a woman's life.
The second incident happened in 2022, when he witnessed a fatal head-on collision involving a semi-truck. Harry emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support for mental health after experiencing traumatic events. The conversation also touches on Harry's recognition in a Navy magazine for his work in the Office of Naval Intelligence. He also discusses his experience as a disaster preparedness officer and the importance of having a medical response team in the workplace.
Harry shares stories of responding to multiple medical emergencies within a short period of time and highlights the value of having trained personnel on-site. Harry also talks about the unique opportunity to work alongside his son, who is a paramedic, and the memorable calls they ran together. He concludes by offering advice to listeners, encouraging them to pursue their passions and reach out for help when needed. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ:
Ready Swimmer and The Real ResQ Store.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical Helicasts. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by Ryan Beard, a flight mechanic in the United States Coast Guard.
Beard recounts his first rescue mission, where he and his crew saved two sailors whose sailboat had run aground on the Galveston, Texas, jetty. This successful rescue earned him an achievement medal and the USCG District 8 Rescue of the Year award. Another notable rescue involved a medevac of a crew member with a critical blast injury. Beard’s disciplined crew resource management and quick decision-making skills were crucial in these high-pressure situations.
During Hurricane Harvey, Beard and his crew were one of the first to respond to the storm and perform rescue operations. They faced challenging conditions, including a violent squall line and rising floodwaters. They embarked on multiple missions, hoisting people in critical condition and navigating through power lines and dangerous obstacles. Beard’s actions and skills were instrumental in the rescue of 32 people. In addition to flying, he also assisted with maintenance tasks and fueling operations, contributing to the success of the massive air rescue operation that saved and assisted 1,738 lives.
Beard talks about the dedication and hard work of the Coast Guard during the hurricane relief efforts and the camaraderie among the team. He also discusses his transition to The Helicopter Interdiction Tactical Squadron (HITRON) and the training he underwent to become a precision marksman. He emphasizes the importance of stepping outside of your comfort zone and challenging yourself to learn and grow. We conclude our conversation with Beard offering advice to those considering joining the Coast Guard. He encourages anyone to reach out for more information. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ:
Breeze-Eastern, Axnes and PAG.Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical Helicasts. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this ASTerisk episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is Live from EURORSA 2024. He sits down with Jesper Rintza and Martin Ravn, two rescue swimmers from the Danish Royal Air Force. They give an insider's perspective, discussing how they do the job of a Rescue Swimmer.
First, both Rintza and Ravn tell a memorable rescue that stands out to each of them. For Rintza, it was a rescue of two Olympian female sailors who went missing. After over an hour of searching, they located the women. The race was on to do everything they could to save the women. Next, for Ravn, he recalls a medevac from a cruise ship, where a patient was experiencing a possible heart attack and needed to get to the hospital.
In the next part of the conversation, we focus on the process that it takes to become a rescue swimmer in their squadron. They have a two-week physical fitness push and then lots of time in the helicopter getting on-the-job training. We discuss some of the medical training that they have to do as Danish Rescue Swimmers, as well as one of the procedures they use for a hypothermic victim in the water. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ:
Collins Aerospace, Switlik and Bluedrop.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this ASTerisk episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is LIVE from DECERT 2024. He is joined by five of the first six U.S. Coast Guard rescue swimmers: Steve Ober (01), Kelly Gordon (02), Rick Woolford (03), Butch Flythe (05), and Larry Farmer (06). This historic gathering brings together the pioneers who laid the foundation for the Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer Program.
Join us as these trailblazers share their incredible stories and memorable moments from the early days of the program. From their grueling training experiences to their first rescues, each recounts the challenges and triumphs that defined their careers. Listen in as they reminisce about the camaraderie, the life-saving missions, and the evolution of the program that set the standard for excellence in search-and-rescue operations.
This episode is a tribute to the bravery and dedication of the original Coast Guard Rescue Swimmers. Their stories not only highlight their personal heroism but also the enduring legacy of the program they helped establish. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear firsthand accounts from the legends of the U.S. Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer community. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ:
Breeze-Eastern, Axnes and PAG.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this ASTerisk episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by the team from Travis County Starflight, Texas - Dr. Taylor Ratcliff, Associate Medical Director, and Brandon Solomon, Flight Paramedic, Hoist Operator, and Rescue Specialist.
As we kick off the summer season, we explore the innovative techniques developed by Travis County StarFlight to combat exertional heat stroke in the field. Join us as we uncover their groundbreaking solution, which utilizes ice, cold water, and chilled IV fluids to rapidly cool patients in remote and challenging environments.
Our guests explain their method in detail, presenting compelling evidence of their operational success rates. We cover the basics of recognizing and treating heat stroke, the severe effects it has on the body, and the critical need for rapid cooling. You'll learn about the use of ice in patient care and the development of a rapid cooling system that can be hoisted in to save lives.
The goal of this episode is to disseminate this life-saving information to as many people and agencies as possible. The method Travis County StarFlight has developed is applicable at any level of medical care, making it a vital tool for first responders and medical professionals alike. Don't miss this episode filled with valuable insights and practical solutions for treating heat stroke in the field. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ:
Ready Swimmer and The Real ResQ Store.Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by Martin Lehmann, Danish Air Force Rescue Swimmer from Rescue Squadron 722.
Martin shares thrilling accounts of his missions, starting with his first, where he was still in the qualification phase and was hoisted into the bush to retrieve an elderly man. He vividly recalls rescuing two children swept away from shore in a dinghy, and being hoisted onto a burning vessel to save the sailors before it was too late. In the last mission he brings us through, he was hoisted onto a sinking fishing vessel to try and help save it.
Martin’s bravery and quick thinking in these high-pressure situations are commendable. As a rescue swimmer in the Danish Air Force, he shares his experiences and insights into their search-and-rescue operations. They use the EH101 helicopter, a variant of the Leonardo AW101. The Danish Air Force covers a vast coastline and provides medevacs from various islands to hospitals in Denmark. They also support the police and participate in international missions. Martin emphasizes the importance of taking it slow and maintaining a calm mindset during high-pressure situations. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ:
Collins Aerospace, Bell and Axnes.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by Larry Farmer, United States Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer 06.
Farmer, the godfather of the United States Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer Program, shares his journey from joining the Coast Guard to becoming an Aviation Survivalman (ASM) and what it took to help build the Swimmer program.
He talks about his first search-and-rescue case as an ASM, which involved retrieving a deceased individual from the water and delivering him to Mexican authorities. Farmer also describes the process of performing platform pickups, where the H3 helicopter lands on water and taxis to the survivor.
He shares a harrowing rescue mission 220 miles off the coast of San Diego, where the helicopter had to navigate through thick fog to reach a distressed crew member on a freighter. This earned him an Air Medal.
Farmer talks about his heroic actions following a plane crashing into the building he was in. With burning jet fuel and chemical explosions, his dedication to rescuing survivors and doing what he could to help earned him a Coast Guard Medal.
Larry's commitment to the rescue swimmer program and his role in shaping its future are discussed, along with the reason that he decided to attend the Navy Rescue Swimmer School. Farmer also explains the resistance and challenges faced in implementing the rescue swimmer program in the U.S. Coast Guard.
He talks about the pushback from changing the existing protocol and the difficulties in standardizing the program. Despite the obstacles, the program has been successful in saving lives and has gained recognition from other services worldwide.
We closed out our conversation with some great advice: Never quit during the dark days, and stay true to oneself. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ:
Switlik, Breeze-Eastern and Bluedrop.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by Matthew Fithian, United States Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer 04.
Fithian shares his experiences and career journey in this podcast episode. He discusses his upbringing, joining the Coast Guard, and various assignments and rescues. Our stories explore moments from his time in boot camp, his work as a flight mechanic, to him becoming Rescue Swimmer 04. Fithian recounts his experiences with helicopter water platform pickups and a rescue where he was hoisted down to a vessel for a victim who had lost his arm. He also mentions the Marine Electric incident and the search for pirates.
Fithian's episode highlights his experiences as a rescue swimmer. We talk about the challenges of being hoisted from a strop and the relief of using harnesses. Matthew shares his memories of going to rescue swimmer school and the determination he had to not quit. He also recounts a daring rescue where he rescued 43 people and a dog from flood waters in Roanoke, VA. Matthew's bravery and dedication earned him an Air Medal for this rescue.
Fithian also talks about his transition to civilian life, working as a truck driver, and his involvement in organizations like the Moose Lodge and Disabled American Veterans. Matthew emphasizes the importance of advancing in one's career and not staying idle. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ:
The Real ResQ Store and Ready Swimmer.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by Kelly Gordon, United States Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer No. 02.
Gordon shares his journey to becoming a rescue swimmer and talks about the early days of the rescue swimmer program. He talks about his experience in the Coast Guard, including close calls and significant events while flying in Astoria, Oregon.
When talking about the earlier days of the rescue swimmer program, Gordon discusses the initial training and implementation of the program, including the challenges they faced with the equipment and the design flaws they encountered. He mentions the evaluation of wetsuits and the exposure exercises they underwent to test their effectiveness in cold water.
He recalls the excitement of their first rescue and the ones that followed. He recounts a rescue where he had to get four people away from a sinking boat in rough waves.
Another memorable rescue he describes is the medevac of a fisherman with a punctured scrotum. Gordon also had a story detailing a body recovery from a boat that sank with four people on board.
Gordon discusses the growth of the rescue swimmer program and the impact of the Jeff Tunks rescue of The Bluebird (The Real ResQ Episode 18). He also talks about his retirement from the Coast Guard and his transition to civilian life. He shares various assignments, qualifications, and experiences, including his time as one of the first five rescue swimmers. Gordon emphasizes the importance of enjoying the moment, putting things in perspective, and appreciating the small things in life. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ:
Axnes and PAG.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
00:00 Introduction and technical instructions
02:59 Kelly's background and journey to becoming a rescue swimmer
08:06 Experiences in Astoria, Oregon
25:57 Implementing the Underwater Escape Rebreather (UER) Program
29:12 Training as a NAOPSPEE instructor
32:44 Training and implementing the program
36:17 Coast Guard's lack of a swim program
41:49 First Coasties to attend Navy Rescue Swimmer School
54:09 Evaluating the effectiveness of wetsuits
59:26 Swimming independent from the helicopter
01:02:32 The first rescues
01:05:11 The challenges of being a rescue swimmer
01:14:13 Memorable rescues
01:28:16 The impact of the Jeff Tunks rescue
01:45:00 Advice and looking forward to the reunion
-
In this episode of The Real ResQ, host Jason Quinn is joined by James Dahmer, rescue medic.
Dahmer shares his background and talks about how he got into search-and-rescue (SAR). He also recounts some of his most memorable rescues, including a fatal resuscitation in the Tantalus Range, and a rescue where he had to perform CPR on a longline.
This conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of SAR work in treacherous mountain environments. They discuss various incidents and challenges Dahmer has faced in his many rescue roles. These stories include a flight to rescue a patient in cold weather, the use of intraosseous (IO) and intravenous (IV) access, preventing IV from freezing in extreme temperatures, a large dockyard fire, a severe half torso laceration, and a major concussion case.
In this conversation, Dahmer shares his experiences and insights as a paramedic, hoist rescue specialist, ropes rescue technician, and ski patrol member. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and psychology of patients in pre-hospital medicine. Dahmer also discusses the challenges and creativity required in rope rescues and the physical demands of high-stress situations. He highlights the value of training and mentoring in the field, plus the need to pass on knowledge to the next generation and share stories in the SAR community. Enjoy!
This episode is powered by Vertical HeliCASTS.
Thank you for sponsoring this episode of The Real ResQ:
Breeze-Eastern and AEM.
Follow The Real ResQ on Facebook and Instagram and listen on Vertical HeliCASTS. Plus, get your podcast gear at therealresqstore.com.
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:52 James' Journey into Search and Rescue
09:43 James' First Rescue
28:49 Resuscitation on a Long Line
33:19 Flight to the South
36:12 CPR Basics in Cold Weather
39:37 Intraosseous (IO) and IV Access
42:29 Preventing IV Freezing
46:32 Squamish Dockyard Fire
52:12 Half Torso Laceration
59:25 Major Concussion
01:01:50 Treating Hypothermia and Stroke Symptoms
01:04:07 Helicopter Rescue and Landing
01:05:27 Recovery and Gratitude
01:06:43 The Importance of Recognition
01:07:09 The Role of Mentors and Training
01:09:29 The Practice of Medicine and Trying New Techniques
01:11:59 Realistic Training and Pushing Boundaries
01:14:18 The Balancing Act of Risk and Rescue
01:15:30 The Limitations of Helicopter Rescue
01:19:22 Progressive Training and Building Skills
01:25:19 The Loneliness of Air Operations
01:27:22 The Speed and Efficiency of Helicopter Rescue
01:30:03 The Challenges of Helicopter Rescue in Canada
01:35:16 Triple Fatality at Shannon Falls
01:41:00 The Importance of Context and Psychology in Pre-hospital Medicine
01:43:18 The Challenges of Rope Rescue and the Need for Creativity
01:49:25 The Intensity and Physical Demands of High-Stress Rescues
01:56:40 The Value of Training and Mentoring
02:01:41 The Jelly Newton Piñata and the Importance of Sharing Stories
02:08:38 Train Your Replacement and Be a Genuine Mentor
- Show more
