Full Notification

          
     Volunteer Search and Rescue Members Retire
On December 14, 2021 the Calaveras County Board of Supervisors formally recognized Volunteer Search and Rescue Members Chuck and Donna Hillis after 14 years of dedicated service.  In their 14 years of service, they worked in the capacity of quartermaster (Chuck), callout coordinators, searchers, incident command, and food services. Chuck and Donna Hillis assumed the role of food services for the Search and Rescue team after seeing the need for such services and procured the equipment needed for transport, preparation and storage at their own expense.  They were responsible for providing food services during search and rescue incidents for both local and mutual aid resources and have been the sole provider of meals for searchers, which at times has required the serving of over 100 meals per meal period.
 Chuck and Donna Hillis have been deployed on mutual aid incidents during their years of service, including large-scale wildfires occurring in Northern California. They have consistently been ready and willing to assist in mutual aid incidents as needed.  They have exhibited excellent professionalism and tireless commitment while being dedicated to the ideals of the Search and Rescue Team. They have displayed selfless service by volunteering their time, funds, and efforts to faithfully serve persons in need and to further the effectiveness of the whole team. 
In addition to recognition by the board of supervisors, Chuck and Donna also received a commendation from the California State Office of Emergency Services for their dedication to Search and Rescue efforts in the state. 
On behalf of Sheriff Rick DiBasilio and the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office, we would like to thank them for their tireless efforts to find those lost or injured in the wilderness of Calaveras and greater California. 
The  Search and Rescue Team continually accepts applications.  All required training is provided and no previous experience is necessary.  Open positions include field searcher, command post liaison,  and logistical support.  The only requirement is a willingness to work as part of a motivated team.   If you are interested, please contact Lt Greg Stark (209) 754-6783 or visit the website at calaverassar.org.