Four search and rescue personnel operating out of Colorado were recently awarded by the Mountain Rescue Association for life-saving actions that took place in August of 2024.

According to a report on the matter from Rocky Mountain Rescue Group, the incident involved a hiker that had become stranded on a narrow ledge of Mount Toll, a 12,979-foot peak that’s located about 20 miles west of Boulder. Staring at a 200-plus-foot drop, the hiker was unable to move up, down, or out of the dangerous terrain without extreme risk and a high likelihood of serious injury or death.

Here’s where the wild high-elevation rescue came in – North Colorado Med Evac-2 flew Dr. Alison Sheets and Dr. Dale Wang to the scene, with the two rescuers able to navigate the steep alpine terrain and complete what was described as a “fifth-class pickoff rescue.” The stranded hiker was ultimately hoisted from the cliffside by a Colorado National Guard Blackhawk helicopter.

As a result of their heroic actions that day, Sheets and Wang received the Mountain Rescue Association ‘Lifesaving Award,’ along with hoist technicians Herb Dorn and Mike Everest of Alpine Rescue Team for their roles in the rescue, too. It’s also worth noting that bystander of the situation Drew Hart was recognized by the Boulder County Sheriff’s Office last year, as well, honored for his assistance in keeping the stuck climber calm and aiding rescuers at the scene.

“Thanks to their rapid response, technical expertise, and teamwork, a life was saved that day,” reads the announcement from Rocky Mountain Rescue Group.

If you’re interested in supporting Colorado’s volunteer-powered search and rescue operation, one way to do so is through the purchase of a CORSAR card. It’s cheap, at only $5 per year. It’s also worth noting that lump-sum donations can be provided to many individual search and rescue teams, as well.

STAY INFORMED: Get free Colorado news with our daily newsletter (Click here)