February 15 is a somber day for Teton County Search & Rescue volunteers. On this day in 2012, founding TCSAR member Ray Shriver tragically died in a helicopter crash during a rescue mission.
On the anniversary of his passing, we commemorate Ray's life and legacy, and keep his family in our thoughts and prayers. It's important that our community never forget his invaluable contributions to TCSAR, and how he made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of others.
This year, we want to share a poem from TCSAR volunteer Terri Romanowski. The day after the crash, Terri did the only thing she could think of to make sense of the tragedy. She sat down and put the below words to paper as a way of honoring her friend and mentor.
You can learn more about Ray and his legacy by visiting the Shriver Society, which was created in his honor.
From wherever you are, please join us in giving thanks to Ray for helping make TCSAR what it is today.
Last night we lost a great friend,
a rescuer through and through right to the end.
Ray not only was a rescuer but a K9 extraordinaire,
he taught and mentored many, leaving none to spare.
Yesterday, they received the call sending them out,
gathering equipment, through the door they were en route.
When life hangs in the balance needing critical care,
these selfless providers quickly took to the air.
Trained for the work, with skills tried and true,
spending endless hours without pay, to deal with all the rescues they attend to.
Deep down we know there’s always a chance a member may not come home,
the mission yesterday was his last to be flown.
On the way to seek additional help something went terribly wrong,
now we gather together and try to stay strong.
This goes to all the red coats and first responders of the Valley,
who never, ever fail to rally.
Putting others first, helping their neighbors through the worst,
risking their lives each and every day,
keeping most from harm’s way.
Selflessly our service to community is our reward,
unfortunately at times it can also be our sword.
—Terri Romanowski, SAR #25,
TCSAR volunteer since 2001, pictured below with
Ray Shriver and search dog Kita.
