Today we were priviliged to witness the first graduation of some military men who went thru a Search and Rescue class taught by a LDS organization of search and rescue named LDS Seagull International, Inc. This organization is headed by one of our own Officers in Charge Peter Negrito who's passion is search and rescue. Several of our officers are apart of this great organization. Our area President, President Edwards through the help of Welfare Department of the Church awarded the organization with rescue equipment which included three rubber boats with motors and backboards and various other equipment needed. Scuba equipment, ropes, ties and equipment to repel. We were invited just a couple of days ago and little did we know that we would also be guests that sat up front with the Colonel from one of the armed forces of the Philippines, Colonel Algapito CS Nagrampa Jr. All of the men that graduated were extremely kind to us and wanted their pictures with us etc. The Press was there and asked Elder Burningham some questions regarding his feelings on the need of the Rescue organization and for their part in training some of the armed forces for the benefit of rescuing people in times of Natural Disasters.
This brought back memories to me of when Al was in the service as a counter intelligent officer serving in Viet Nam. It did to Al also as he talked with many of the men regarding their ribbons and patches. Many were paratroops trained which is what Al was trained to do. Al is scuba trained and he was interested in how many were trained in this.
I am told that our pictures will be in the local newpaper. This was quite an experience. The place this function took place was called La Mesa Dam. It is beautiful and green and the dam is amazingly large. The surrounding area is part of a rain forest. Little did we know that it even existed here.
No comments:
Post a Comment