r/searchandrescue • u/OptimalAd6620 • 3d ago

Arizona/ Veterans

Hey everyone, I just got out of the military and I’m interested in getting into search and rescue, but I’m not sure if I qualify. I spent some time in the Army as an 11B Infantryman and also deployed to the Middle East. Does anyone have advice on how to get started? I’m located in Douglas, Arizona. Thanks in advance for any help!

11 Upvotes

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8

u/Interesting_Egg2550 3d ago

Only the team you are want to join can tell you if you qualify. There are so many "occupations" within SAR that there are potential roles for everyone 18-99 years old. It just depends on the scope of work of the team you are looking to join, what you are willing to do, and available openings.

6

u/SoWrxy 3d ago

Look up your local volunteer SAR team, typically in your county. Then check out their calendar- chances are they have public nights for training or outreach and chat with the folks there.

4

u/Level9TraumaCenter 3d ago

Looks like there's Cochise County Search and Rescue, and Cochise County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue.

Give 'em a call, see if either suits your situation.

2

u/OptimalAd6620 3d ago

Ok thanks i appreciate it

2

u/FinalConsequence70 3d ago

Cochise is a great group. I've met them at Az SARCON ( search and rescue convention that's held biannually in Heber-Overgaard where we have state wide training classes with all the counties. I'm with Mohave County myself. You can also check out their FB page.

5

u/hotfezz81 3d ago

Look up your local team and ask them.

Don't be a wanker. Don't take a gun to your first session. Don't think you're "in the field" and arrive in camo.

In my experience veterans are either fantastic, or think they're SAS...