JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska –
Alaska Air National Guardsmen of the 176th Wing rescued an injured mountain biker near Girdwood, July 14.
The biker, riding an electric bike, was reported to the Alaska State Troopers as lost in the vicinity of Upper Winner Creek Trail.
Alaska Air National Guard Master Sgt. David Alborn, Alaska Rescue Coordination Center senior controller, said the AST requested assistance from the AKRCC, and they requested assistance from the 176th Wing who dispatched a 210th Rescue Squadron HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter and a 212th Rescue Squadron pararescue team (PJs).
A Girdwood Fire Department ground search and rescue team located the biker before the Pave Hawk arrived, but they were unable to safely transport him.
Due to vegetation and terrain, the Pave Hawk crew hoisted down two PJs who packaged and hoisted the biker to the helicopter.
The Pave Hawk transported the biker to the Providence Alaska Medical Center in Anchorage and released him to medical staff there.
Alborn said planning is key to safety when venturing into the Alaska wilderness.
“It’s important to be familiar with the area and the trails, and to properly plan your route,” he said. “Even for a short trip, be prepared to spend an extended time or even the night if necessary.”
For this rescue, 210th RQS, 212th RQS, the AKRCC, and the Girdwood Fire Department were awarded one save.