An outing in the Eagle Cap Wilderness turned out well for an injured hiker found and aided by Walla Walla County Fire District 4 Firefighter Paramedic Jestin Goodson, among others.
More than a week ago, as Jestin and family members trekked along an overgrown trail about 5 miles from the nearest trailhead, they heard calls for help from a rocky ravine below.
“Thanks to his medical training, support from other hikers, volunteers with Wallowa County Search and Rescue and a nighttime response from Whitefish, Montana-based Two Bear Air, the hiker was safely removed from a rocky cliff by helicopter late at night,” said Wildland Firefighter and Public Information Volunteer Alissa Cordner in a release. “Local firefighters and emergency responders are a valuable resource for our community. Their extensive training, medical skills and ability to stay calm under pressure mean they can respond and help in times of need, even while off duty,” she said.