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BWCA rescue mission was a success
From Ely we could hear and see the Chinook helicopter ferrying boats and other gear to and from Curtain Falls as rescuers searched for two canoeists who lost their lives. But it is only those men and women who spent 16 days searching who know what went into finding the bodies of Reis Grams and Jesse Haugen.
The St. Louis County Rescue Squad wrote online posts including one at the end of this ordeal that caught our attention: “We can’t say who came up with the idea…to walk up to the falls, in the dark, to see the stars. Seven of us…we fly out tomorrow—or maybe not—three Beaver flights are scheduled, but there’s weather…always there’s weather. Contingency plans are in place in case two or four of us have to stay.
“God, You do great work. “It’s beautiful. The falls are no longer our enemy, and we can appreciate their majesty. They create their own wind, which keeps the bugs away as we gaze upward in silence. One could lay a pad down on the rocks and sleep quite comfortably, something Jesse and Reis might have done. We feel like we know them… intimate familiarity after 16 days. There are so many stars it’s hard to pick out major constellations. Cassiopeia…Lyra…even Polaris seem out of place…we’re two degrees farther north than ‘normal,’ and it makes a difference.
“I carefully tiptoe over and touch Monument 656, the cold metal so important a landmark over the last two weeks. I may never see it again.
“We say a prayer for the families. I’m on a similar journey, set out on 11 months ago. This mission has touched us all in many ways. We are closer…a better team. After action reviews will come later to capture and hold opportunities to grow even better. But for these few moments, it’s just us, the stars, the water… “Without a word, we turn and head back down the trail to the fire.
“Friends, thanks for tagging along as we spin a yarn, and be safe out there, eh?”
There were many, many posts from people thanking all of those involved in this operation. Here’s a few: Dawn LaPointe: “Thank you for all your efforts and expertise on your mission. I have seen and photographed Curtain Falls by moonlight and at sunrise. It is beautiful and peaceful, yet wildly powerful. It has been interesting following your behind-the-scenes posts, but wish the outcome had been different for the canoeists lost to the falls. May their families find peace and closure.”
Cathy Coombe: “Your dedication to your work is admirable. Thank you. So grateful Jesse and Reis are back where their families can begin to heal. Take care and God bless you all.”
Dan Zachrison: “Thank you for all your rescue squad has done. Sad day to lose two Blaine alum classmates knowing they were both great men, fathers, husbands and friends to many. Prayers and love to their families during this hard time for peace and comfort.”
