GUAM – Search and Rescue Group Guam (SAR Group Guam) Thursday conducted a quarterly search and rescue exercise at Tarague Beach. The scenario involved two swimmers over the reef and in distress.
After initial notification was received, a helicopter from the Navy’s Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25 was launched to search for the missing individuals. Boats from Guam Fire and Rescue and Guam Police Department also responded, as did jet skis from the Andersen Air Force Base Fire Department. The Navy’s Explosive Ordinance Disposal Mobile Unit Five provided medical support.
A key element of the exercise was establishing reliable communications between units on scene and with Coast Guard Joint Rescue Sub-Center Guam, which is located on Navy Base Guam. The Coast Guard deployed a portable VHF communications “go-kit,” and the Guam National Guard responded with a trailer containing an extensive suite of communications equipment.
Several communications solutions were developed during the exercise to ensure that SAR Group Guam is better prepared to handle the next real-life event that occurs in challenging terrain. SAR Group Guam conducts quarterly exercises to maintain skills and improve its ability assist persons in distress on Guam.
