We made some great headway in fundraising and towards our goal of buying a new truck, but we still have a ways to go!! You can donate here: http://www.bamru.org/donate
In 2012 we welcomed seven new trainees to the team, logged 2,305 hours in the field responding to 29 callouts, 6,435 hours on trainings, and 884 hours at meetings. We received and responded to the 30th callout of the year on New Year's Eve.
In total, BAMRU logged 10,370.5 volunteer hours. That's 10,370 hours spent away from home, families, and warm beds doing a job that we love to do and 10,370 hours supporting each other through difficult searches, brainstorming sessions, long trainings and some good times thrown in for good measure.
While every member of our team is extremely valued, every year a handful are recognized for their outstanding service. This year BAMRU recognized the following members:
Member of the year: Chris Kantarjiev
The annual Member of the Year award is presented to the BAMRU member who through actions, attitude, creativity, and commitment provides the greatest support and enhancement to BAMRU's ability to perform its public-service mission. This year, we highlight the member who devised and instituted a new training philosophy focused on the needs of trainee members to complete their certifications; an innovative training portfolio that creates more opportunity for senior members to enhance their skills; the "endorsement" mechanism to recognize progress towards the rank of rescue member; a reworked schedule; and inspiring a culture of safety, achievement, and fun.
It's hard to sum up what Chris has done for our team. His title is "Training Officer", but he's also a mentor, an organizer, and someone who has his finger on the pulse of the team and its members. This year he was promoted to technical member, logged a total of 516 hours working for the team, and that's not including all of the hours spent being responsive to endless emails and questions from those of us looking for guidance. The entire team is eternally grateful for his service.
Searcher of the year: Kito Berg-Taylor
The annual Searcher of the Year award is presented to the BAMRU member who makes the greatest direct contribution to BAMRU's search and rescue operations. It is based on attendance at call-outs, participation in overnight and multi-day operations, and commitment in the field.
In 2012 it was notable that half a dozen BAMRU member logged more that 125 hours in SAR operations. However, one individual stood out. By participating in 18 search and rescue operations, including several multi-day commitments, with a distinctive combination of energy, determination, and good cheer.
Kito is the type of searcher that seems to never tire. Somehow he manages to get through the toughest assignments on barely any sleep and still be a pillar of strength for his teammates. Kito has just recently deployed for boot camp and will begin training to become a field medic for the U.S. Army. We wish Kito all the best on his new path and a safe return home.
Recognition for Service:
Ben Yaffe: For service as Operations Officer
Will Gilmore: For service as the BAMRU Secretary
John Mandish: For service as the Recruiting Officer
Blake Gleason: For “High hours, but more important, high initiative, and high frontline leadership in training and developing people."
Abi Fitzgerald: "For ongoing efforts to highlight BAMRU’s presence in the social media and ongoing cultivation of BAMRU camaraderie."
Rachel Farrand: "For exceptional dedication and for opening her home to the holiday party this year."
Happy 2013 everyone!
Contributors: John Chang- Award descriptions and summary, Rachel Allen- Log of unit hours
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