After many months of hard work, SDN recently finished Phase I of our Operations Trailer project. The addition of the trailer allows us to access the computer and information systems required to manage a complex search operation within a secure and weather resistant environment. The trailer started life with Search Once Rescue Team of Lewisville, TX where it served as their operations center for 14 productive years. SDN acquired the trailer in June of 2012 and pressed it into service at a search in Milam County. We then began a long refit process building on the work of Search One.
The trailer served Search One well for 14 years
Members spent many hours scraping, sanding, hammering, and rebuilding where necessary.
Joel in his element
Blanton ponders life’s many questions
Off with the old
Viktor tackles the wiring
We were able to complete the work in stages, and continue to train with and deploy the trailer as required.
Trailer at Fort Boggy State Park before her shiny new decals
Jim briefs a team before deployment
Members track resources during a BVCART Exercise
After many long days and late nights, Phase I is complete. Phase II will include improvements to the battery system, computer displays, and an expanded storage area. As anyone with an RV or boat will testify, there is always more work to do!
Ellen at the revamped Plans station
Denise tracks her troops
Deployed at a search in College Station (courtesy KAGS – @KAGSnews)
A happy team & shiny new (to us) trailer
We could not have done it without the steadfast support of the following:
- Search One Rescue Team
- The George Bush Foundation
- Pilger’s Tire & Automotive
- The Bill and Jackie Clark Memorial Foundation
- The Community Foundation of the Brazos Valley
- Fast Signs
- RDM Audio