HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-17-14 Thank you from J. Simko - Hanakapiai rescueJohn Simko
6245 Lake Athabaska Place
San Diego, Ca 92119
April 17, 2014
Robert Westerman
Fire Chief
Kauai Fire Department
Dear Mr. Westerman:
I would like to let know the outstanding job your crew did in the rescue of the 121 hikers
from Kalalau Trail. My wife JoHanna and I are so thankful for being safely "plucked"
from the trail to Hanakapiai falls and delivered to safety by Aaron Hawthorne, Adam
Hussey, Cliff Cates, and the many others I did not get the names of.
I could spend a lot of time telling you how your crew risked their own lives for strangers
but I'm sure you already know how they bravely take those risks on rescues as part of the
job. I wanted you to know how Aaron and Adam went above and beyond any of their
duties. We fully expected to be scolded as "dumb tourists" at some point for putting
ourselves and your crew at risk, which we probably deserved. That did not happen.
Aaron and Adam could not have been more kind and generous about the rescue. During
the rescue they were professional and kind, Adam even had a laugh with me dangling
from the helicopter about filming my experience. At one point he reminded me to look
around and enjoy the view. The kindness and professionalism continued all night with
Adam and Aaron, they shared stories around the fire and did a great job of keeping the
mood light. All the while collecting wood for the fire and attending to cold and wet
people. I'm in the service industry and know you can't train or teach what Aaron and
Adam have. Outstanding men! The only drawback is I get to hear my wife, sister -in -law
and friend forever squawk about how good looking their rescuers are...
We are deeply thankful
for what your
crew did for us and
the expense your department
paid
for the rescue. We
have attached
the videos we took
during the event.
Sincerely,
John and JoHanna Simko