VMC trains for ski patrol

By Ms. Julie M Lucas (IMCOM)March 9, 2015

Snow Patrol 1
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Snow Patrol 2
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Snow Patrol 3
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Can you imagine rushing down a snowy mountain with a pack to treat a variety of injuries? Members of the Vicenza Military Community have a unique way that they are giving back to the local community. Around nine people are training to become Alpine ski patrollers.

According to Patrol Director Pierre Russell, the Vicenza Ski Patrol is made up of volunteers with a focus on mountain rescue but are trained as first responders for any outdoor medical emergency. This was open to any outdoor enthusiasts, skiers or snowboarders.

"People who participate from Vicenza include spouses, Soldiers, and civilians," said Russell. This is Russell's third season in the VMC and his first as director.

Those who volunteer receive training both in the classroom on written and hands on examinations. Once that is completed, they do on-the-hill training in Austria and Folgaria, Italy. On average it takes nearly four months to become fully trained to learn the medical portion, which is roughly 80 percent of EMT training.

"Even those with medical training can be challenged because of the unique situation that is created by being on a hill, with snow," said Russell. "If you are a snowboarder, you can do this, too."

Additional training consists of avalanche avoidance, mountaineering skills, ice climbing and ski tuning.

"My husband and I took this training simply because we are outdoors people and I wanted to be able to help my husband or someone who was with us if something happened," said Sherry Dixon. "You will learn things that extend beyond skiing such as snake bites, hiking and cycling accidents."

The patrol is available to assist for free with events of groups and units who want to go on ski trips or need first responder care for outdoor situations.

The Vicenza Ski Patrol recently won two awards for Patrol of the Year for 2014 and Patrol Director of the Year for 2014, who was Steve Funk. Dan Sacks received a yellow merit star for extraordinary support above and beyond, while his wife Patrizia received an Angel pin for her support as a spouse. The patrol is part of the European Division of the National Ski Patrol. Training here will continue with you back to the states, but doesn't guarantee a job.

To inquire on how to get the patrol to be involved with your activity, email vicenzaskipatrol@gmail.com. You can also search for them on Facebook under Vicenza Ski Patrol.

Related Links:

USAG Vicenza Facebook page

USAG Vicenza Homepage