PORTLAND, Ore. -- Seven Air Force Reserve pararescuemen (PJs) from the 920th Rescue Wing's geographically separated unit in Portland, Ore., the 304th Rescue Squadron, are continuing the search for a 57 year-old hiker.

The missing hiker was reported to the Clackamas County Sheriff's Department July 25th by his brother, which prompted a search by the Sheriff's Dept. Realizing the extensive area and rugged terrain, the sheriff made the call to the 304th RQS and to the rescue professionals.

Yesterday, the PJs searched for nine hours covering a 2 x 2 Km area of dense, wooded, high-angle terrain where their specialty training came in handy.

"The sheriff broke down the most likely areas where the hiker would have gone and gave us [PJs] the most rugged terrain to search," said Major John Graver, commander of the 304th RQS.

The PJs worked with six other search teams that consisted of local volunteers, the local sheriff's department, local K-9 units and even the American Red Cross who provided food and water for the search teams.

"We've been working with the local law enforcement here for almost 50 years," said Major Graver. "It's a seamless process and the coordination between us is flawless."

Going into day two of a three-day search plan the PJs are ready to get back out and continue the search.

Some of the pararescuemen are working hand-in-hand with a local K-9 unit to enhance the search for the missing man.


The 920th RQW PJs are ready for any type of rescue in any terrain. In fact, they are among the most highly trained emergency trauma specialists in the U.S. military. They must maintain an emergency medical technician-paramedic qualification throughout their careers. With this medical and rescue expertise, along with their deployment capabilities, PJs are able to perform life-saving missions in the world's most remote areas.