By Glenn Hicks

New book boosts funds for search and rescue teams

Oct 3, 2018 | 12:13 PM

A popular and passionate supporter of search and rescue efforts in Saskatchewan is still giving back, over a year after his death.

Profits from a book about the late RCMP Staff Sgt. Peter Garvey will go to the Search and Rescue Saskatchewan Association of Volunteers (SARSAV), which is the umbrella body for the 17 individual chapters that respond to the call across the province.

The book, Life Lessons From A Red Serge, chronicles Garvey’s career and life experiences during 30 years of service in urban and rural communities across the nation. The authors of the book, two of his sisters, Barb Porter and Linda Garvey, were inspired to write it to reflect his generous spirit, deep bond with search and rescue, his tireless work ethic and his ability to see good in all people. He died from brain cancer in June 2017 at the age of 54.

“I personally worked with Pete on a couple of search incidents,” Joel Perreault, the President of Prince Albert North Search and Rescue told paNOW. “I knew when he was in charge the incident would be managed as well as it could.”

Perreault said Garvey endorsed and valued search and rescue efforts and knew everything about it, “running a thousand scenarios through his mind in an effort to get the best result.”

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Perreault added Garvey touched many people’s lives and he captivated audiences at conferences with his experiences and how they could be applied to searches and their personal lives.

The funds secured from the profits of the book, will assist local chapters like P.A. North (PANSAR) to enhance training, according to Perreault.

“We’re good for equipment through government grants and generous donations, but like anything, education and continual training is key for our members, so that’s a cost,” he said.

The local group has about 20 active members and Perreault said they’re being called upon more and more to respond to searches.

“We do what we do because finding a loved one …and having closure is so important, and having trained and organized professionals can bring the best result,” he said.

How to get involved

PANSAR has regular meetings the first Monday of every month. On Nov. 5, they will offer GPS training.

Volunteers need a criminal record check and must at least have their basic searcher course which is a 40-hour requirement. Those courses are being offered Nov. 28 and Dec. 9.

The group has its regular meetings at the P.A. Fire Hall. The venue for training will be confirmed on their Facebook page.

glenn.hicks@jpbg.ca

On Twitter:@princealbertnow