12/12/2024
With a heavy heart, we at the Vision of Hope Foundation reflect on the somber duty of extending our support to the Tennessee Special Response Team-A in the aftermath of the devastating floods wrought by Hurricane Helene in September-October 2024.
In this time of tragedy, we were reminded of the selfless dedication of this special team, a non-profit entity that offers search and rescue services with their expertly trained professionals and K-9 units, all at no cost.
TN STR-A, in their brave endeavor, relies solely on self-funding to carry out their mission. They also organize training seminars, providing crucial education and NASAR testing to other search and rescue teams. Their aim, a somber yet vital task, was to "clear" areas—to confirm or deny the presence of human remains—before the heavy equipment moved in to sift through the wreckage, the debris piles, and the thick, clinging mud.
Each team member bears the weight of responsibility, supplying their own field equipment and covering the costs of canine upkeep and veterinary needs. They are minimally certified to the National Association for Search and Rescue (NASAR) SARTECH II level, ICS trained, and prepared to stand alone for 24 hours.
The echoes of their findings linger with us—along the stretch of Interstate 26 between exits 37 and 40, near the collapsed bridge close to Erwin, TN. It is here, in the stillness following disaster, that they discovered the remains of 6 victims. The loss is palpable, a haunting reminder of the fragility of life amidst nature's fury.
DM for the link to Donate, be sure to mention TN STR-A or head to their site https://www.tnsrta.org/Contact.html
