Santa Cruz, Bolivia, GMR55

Cochabamba, Bolivia, 2015. Water and Canal Rescue. GMR volunteers pictured in blue shirts- Left: Sean Carris, Middle: Ariany Melgar, Right: Scott Walker.

Global Mission Readiness keeps moving forward in the worldwide safety and training arena. GMR is happy to announce to continue training in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, South America for GMR’s 55th mission.

Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, South America; “The Center of South America.”

On September 19th, 2018, firefighters from Clackamas Fire and Forest Grove Fire and Rescue, specially trained in Rope Rescue will be heading to Santa Cruz to train with firefighters in Basic Rope Rescue. GMR has been in this region to teach EMS, Vehicle Extrication, Water Rescue, and Firefighter Safety and Survival. We are excited to go back to this area as the need is high and much appreciated. The area is home to over 2 million people, including areas of industry, recreation, residential, and farming on the outskirts. With the main system of water removal being canals, first responders from the area struggle to safely remove trapped victims and animals from the canals before flash flooding occurs. The skills, knowledge, and equipment that GMR will bring, increase safety, efficiency, and truly saves lives.

The team is made of up volunteer Ryan Patrick (CFD), Shawn Mullen (CFD), Rick Ilg (FGFR), and team leader Patrick DeLair (CFD). GMR is also excited to have photographer Juliana Patrick accompany the team and document the trip. Juli is a well-respected photographer and videographer in Portland, OR, USA.

Cochabamba, Bolivia, 2015. Water and Canal Rescue. GMR volunteers pictured in blue shirts- Left: Sean Carris, Middle: Ariany Melgar, Right: Scott Walker.
Cochabamba, Bolivia, 2015. Water and Canal Rescue. GMR volunteers pictured in blue shirts- Left: Sean Carris, Middle: Ariany Melgar, Right: Scott Walker.

Return trips to areas like Santa Cruz are exciting for GMR because we build on previous trips, test the skills and abilities from previous training missions, and build lifelong friendships around the world. Our collaboration breaks down cultural barriers, provide the education and resources to help save lives by teaching first responders how to help themselves, help their communities, and their countries. To learn more or to get involved, follow along on Facebook and Instagram and our website at Global Mission Readiness. You can learn more about Juliana Patrick by visiting www.julianapatrick.com

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