The Oneida County Search and Rescue (SAR) held their annual banquet at the county Events Center to recognize the work its volunteer members have done over the last year as well as to swear in the new SAR leadership for the new year.

As many know, the SAR serves to assist the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office in whatever capacity is needed.  Whether it is to search for a missing person, assist in traffic control, or provide event security, the SAR steps up to help the county however is needed.  Sheriff Arnie Jones expressed his thanks to the unit at the annual banquet and said that without their work, they wouldn’t be able to help the members and visitors of this community in the ways that they need it.  

Prepared to carry out the variety of potential rescues, the SAR has teams specialized in repelling, tracking and diving.  The unit also has a truck, hummer, boat, amphibious 6x6 and jet ski to use for any search and rescue needs, as well as the personal equipment that the members provide such as 4wheelers, ATVs, snowmobiles and horses.

The banquet was catered by the local favorite, the Iron Door Smokehouse and Catering Co.  Following the meal, Commander Katlin Jensen made a presentation of the service year pins as well as various awards.  Steve Stainer was awarded his 15 year service pin as well as his retirement plaque as he has decided to leave the SAR unit.  

Brayden Eliason was recognized as the Search and Rescue Member of the Year.  Aside from volunteering to help in nearly every search, event security, and community outreach, Eliason worked throughout the year to update the dive team with funds brought in by Sheriff Jones from Idaho Waterways.  Through the funding, five additional SAR members were SCUBA trained certified in basic open water skills as well as in water search and recovery.  The funds were also used to outfit the team with new wetsuits, gloves, fins, boots, mask, and hoods for each of its members.  They also purchased 2 new buoyancy compensators, 2 breathing regulators, and other various needs for diving.   

Receiving their service pins for five years of service were Katlin Jensen and Aaron Maughan.  Tim Swope and Eliason both received their service pins for ten years of service as part of the SAR unit as well.

Following the awards presentation, Sheriff Jones swore in the newly elected SAR leadership as well as two new members, Nate Adams and Conner Black.  Jed Ward was sworn in as Commander with Aaron Maughan as  First Vice and Bob Ellis as Second Vice with Conner Black as Quartermaster.

Commander Jensen and the SAR members express their thanks and support to the members of the community, as well as to the businesses that donate to their program.  The SAR has openings available for anyone that would like to volunteer and join the unit.  Applications can be picked up at the Sheriff’s office or a digital copy can be emailed.