Episode 206 - Heroes of Hurricane Helene: A Rescue Mission with Virginia State Police Part I

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! This is a special two-part series Hangar Z co-hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray recorded with Virginia State Police pilots Jeff Bush and Brian Canada. This conversation highlights their heroic rescue mission that successfully saved 54 individuals from a hospital engulfed by floodwaters during Hurricane Helene.Hurricane Helene impacted the entire southeastern portion of the United States. In this series, we talk about the brave efforts of first responders during the storm and the role helicopter aviation is playing in the response to natural disasters. This candid conversation explores the critical role of public safety aviation in disaster response, highlighting the personal experiences of rescuers as they navigated challenging weather conditions. Learn about the intricate decision-making process for launching the mission, the vital importance of communication and crew co-ordination, and the impressive integration of civil and military assets during the operation.We'll reflect on the challenges faced, the invaluable lessons learned, and the crucial support provided by aviation programs in life-saving scenarios. Additionally, we’ll discuss community involvement and the contributions of private helicopters during disaster responses.Be sure to catch Lisa Gordon's captivating article that highlights this remarkable mission at www.verticalmag.com.Get ready for an insightful episode that honors the dedication of our first responders and emphasizes the transformative power of aviation in saving lives.Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Collins Aerospace and Technisonic.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this episode of the Hangar Z Podcast, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Lt Steve Farris from the Seminole County Sheriff's Office Aviation Section. Lt Farris shares his unique journey, tracing his early interest in law enforcement and aviation, alongside his family history that shaped his career path. Lt Farris discusses his progression from patrol officer to helicopter pilot and eventually earning the title of chief pilot, as he highlights critical moments that influenced his ambition and guided his leadership strategies within the aviation section.  We examine the growth of Seminole County and the unique challenges of living in an area with a significant alligator population, providing an interesting backdrop to his experiences. Lt Farris discusses the structure of the aviation unit and the integration of drones into their operations.  Lt Farris shares valuable insights on the challenges and successes of the aviation program, emphasizing the importance of effective communication, fostering a strong culture, and the need for strategic succession planning within the air support unit.   We also get an opportunity to discuss aircraft replacement cycles, the financial justifications behind them, and considerations necessary for operating in diverse weather conditions. With a strong emphasis on leadership principles, Lt Farris articulates how common sense plays a role in enhancing operational efficiency and safety.Thank you to our sponsors Astronautics Corporation of America,  Bell and Robinson Helicopters.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this episode of the Hangar Z Podcast, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray sit down with Lt Steve Farris from the Seminole County Sheriff's Office Aviation Section. Lt Farris shares his unique journey, tracing his early interest in law enforcement and aviation, alongside his family history that shaped his career path. Lt Farris discusses his progression from patrol officer to helicopter pilot and eventually earning the title of chief pilot, as he highlights critical moments that influenced his ambition and guided his leadership strategies within the aviation section.  We examine the growth of Seminole County and the unique challenges of living in an area with a significant alligator population, providing an interesting backdrop to his experiences. Lt Farris discusses the structure of the aviation unit and the integration of drones into their operations.  Lt Farris shares valuable insights on the challenges and successes of the aviation program, emphasizing the importance of effective communication, fostering a strong culture, and the need for strategic succession planning within the air support unit.   We also get an opportunity to discuss aircraft replacement cycles, the financial justifications behind them, and considerations necessary for operating in diverse weather conditions. With a strong emphasis on leadership principles, Lt Farris articulates how common sense plays a role in enhancing operational efficiency and safety.Thank you to our sponsors Becker Avionics, Precision Aviation Group and Summit Aviation.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this engaging two-part series of the Hangar Z Podcast, Tony Webber and Jon Gray welcome Dale Head, a seasoned expert in aerial firefighting. With a rich background in both the fire service and aviation, Dale shares his journey and insights into the high-stakes world of aerial firefighting.The conversation kicks off with Dale’s experiences in the field, highlighting the vital role of air attack in initial fire responses and the challenges that come with managing aerial operations. Listeners will hear about the controlled chaos of firefighting missions, where constant deconfliction is essential for safety and efficiency. Dale discusses the various aircraft employed in these missions, along with specialized equipment like infrared cameras that enhance firefighting efforts.Dale’s passion for music also comes to light as he shares anecdotes from his unique band projects, infusing humor and camaraderie into the discussion. Alongside funny stories from their firefighting careers, the group emphasizes the importance of safety gear and the critical nature of mentorship within the fire service and aviation industry. As the owner of a company that provides aerial firefighting services, Dale reflects on memorable fires and the complexities of maintaining and managing a fleet of aircraft. Finally, he offers valuable advice for those aspiring to enter the field of public safety aviation, inspiring newcomers to embrace the challenges and rewards of this vital career path.Join us for a compelling conversation that combines expertise, humor, and heartfelt messages about community and mentorship in the world of aerial firefighting!Thank you to our sponsors Becker Avionics, Spectrolab and Summit Aviation.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS! In this engaging two-part series of the Hangar Z Podcast, Tony Webber and Jon Gray welcome Dale Head, a seasoned expert in aerial firefighting. With a rich background in both the fire service and aviation, Dale shares his journey and insights into the high-stakes world of aerial firefighting.The conversation kicks off with Dale’s experiences in the field, highlighting the vital role of air attack in initial fire responses and the challenges that come with managing aerial operations. Listeners will hear about the controlled chaos of firefighting missions, where constant deconfliction is essential for safety and efficiency. Dale discusses the various aircraft employed in these missions, along with specialized equipment like infrared cameras that enhance firefighting efforts.Dale’s passion for music also comes to light as he shares anecdotes from his unique band projects, infusing humor and camaraderie into the discussion. Alongside funny stories from their firefighting careers, the group emphasizes the importance of safety gear and the critical nature of mentorship within the fire service and aviation industry. As the owner of a company that provides aerial firefighting services, Dale reflects on memorable fires and the complexities of maintaining and managing a fleet of aircraft. Finally, he offers valuable advice for those aspiring to enter the field of public safety aviation, inspiring newcomers to embrace the challenges and rewards of this vital career path.Join us for a compelling conversation that combines expertise, humor, and heartfelt messages about community and mentorship in the world of aerial firefighting!Thank you to our sponsors Astronautics Corporation of America, Precision Aviation Group and Spectrum Aeromed.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!  In this landmark two-part series celebrating our 200th episode, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray have the honor of welcoming Kevin Means, a legendary figure in law enforcement aviation, and the familiar voice you hear at the beginning of every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast.  This special series dives deep into Kevin's unforgettable, “Don't go over that fence,”incident, illuminating its significant impact on public safety. Join us as we explore the evolution of tactical flight officer (TFO) training and the remarkable journey that led Kevin from a curious childhood to becoming a respected police officer.  Together, they discuss the unique dynamics of the San Diego Police Department, addressing the challenges faced by law enforcement in the region, including the infamous San Diego tank chase and the transformative advancements in air support and technology in policing.  Kevin talks about the early part of his career where he reflects on working patrol, and the infamous Border Crime Suppression Team written about in the book Lines and Shadows by Joseph Wambaugh.  We discuss the importance of crew resource management in aviation. Kevin shares his perspectives on the media’s portrayals of law enforcement and the changing public perceptions of police work.   With his extensive experience, Kevin highlights the critical importance of communication, training, and leadership in the field. He discusses the founding of the company Tactical Flying, as well as his role in mentoring the next generation of aviators. As we approach the conclusion, Kevin reflects on his retirement and his ongoing commitment to education and mentorship within aviation.  Join us for this monumental series as we look back on the journey of law enforcement aviation and forward to the future our industry.  Tune in and help us celebrate 200 episodes of the Hangar Z Podcast! Thank you to our sponsors Dallas Avionics, Robinson Helicopter Company and Spectrum Aeromed.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!  In this landmark two-part series celebrating our 200th episode, hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray have the honor of welcoming Kevin Means, a legendary figure in law enforcement aviation, and the familiar voice you hear at the beginning of every episode of The Hangar Z Podcast.  This special series dives deep into Kevin's unforgettable, “Don't go over that fence,”incident, illuminating its significant impact on public safety. Join us as we explore the evolution of tactical flight officer (TFO) training and the remarkable journey that led Kevin from a curious childhood to becoming a respected police officer.  Together, they discuss the unique dynamics of the San Diego Police Department, addressing the challenges faced by law enforcement in the region, including the infamous San Diego tank chase and the transformative advancements in air support and technology in policing.  Kevin talks about the early part of his career where he reflects on working patrol, and the infamous Border Crime Suppression Team written about in the book Lines and Shadows by Joseph Wambaugh.  We discuss the importance of crew resource management in aviation. Kevin shares his perspectives on the media’s portrayals of law enforcement and the changing public perceptions of police work.  With his extensive experience, Kevin highlights the critical importance of communication, training, and leadership in the field. He discusses the founding of the company Tactical Flying, as well as his role in mentoring the next generation of aviators. As we approach the conclusion, Kevin reflects on his retirement and his ongoing commitment to education and mentorship within aviation.  Join us for this monumental series as we look back on the journey of law enforcement aviation and forward to the future our industry.  Tune in and help us celebrate 200 episodes of the Hangar Z Podcast! Thank you to our sponsors Bell, Metro Aviation and SHOTOVER.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!This episode was recorded on location in Washington, D.C., from the D.C. Metro Police aviation hangar, as part of The Hangar Z Vertical Valor Blades of Valor Tour. The road tour included visits to some of North America’s public safety aviation units, showcasing some of the heroes who exemplify courage, dedication, and selflessness in the line of duty every day. Jack Schonley, Brent Bundy from Vertical Valor magazine and Jon Gray were invited to see firsthand the good work they are doing to protect the capital of the United States.In this episode, we sit down with Sgt Danny Thaw and pilot Kevin Chittick from the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Air Support Unit. The conversation delves into the critical role of aviation during civil disturbance situations in providing valuable information to ground units. Listeners will gain insights into the complexities of operating within the tightly controlled airspace of Washington, D.C.We discuss and emphasize the importance of crew resource management (CRM) and the strong relationship between law enforcement pilots and air traffic controllers, highlighting the significance of fostering trust and communication.We discuss the impact of new technologies on law enforcement aviation, along with stories from impactful missions, including the response to the January 6 incident.Tune in to discover the essential value of aviation in enhancing situational awareness and supporting officers on the ground in their ongoing commitment to public safety.Look out for an article, photos, and videos, by Brent Bundy highlighting the DC Metro Aviation Unit at Verticalmag.com and the Vertical YouTube page.Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, SHOTOVER and Spectrolab.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!This episode was recorded on location in Washington, D.C., from the D.C. Metro Police aviation hangar, as part of The Hangar Z Vertical Valor Blades of Valor Tour. The road tour included visits to some of North America’s public safety aviation units, showcasing some of the heroes who exemplify courage, dedication, and selflessness in the line of duty every day. Jack Schonley, Brent Bundy from Vertical Valor magazine and Jon Gray were invited to see firsthand the good work they are doing to protect the capital of the United States.In this episode, we sit down with Sgt Danny Thaw and pilot Kevin Chittick from the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Air Support Unit. The conversation delves into the critical role of aviation during civil disturbance situations in providing valuable information to ground units. Listeners will gain insights into the complexities of operating within the tightly controlled airspace of Washington, D.C.We discuss and emphasize the importance of crew resource management (CRM) and the strong relationship between law enforcement pilots and air traffic controllers, highlighting the significance of fostering trust and communication.We discuss the impact of new technologies on law enforcement aviation, along with stories from impactful missions, including the response to the January 6 incident.Tune in to discover the essential value of aviation in enhancing situational awareness and supporting officers on the ground in their ongoing commitment to public safety.Look out for an article, photos, and videos, by Brent Bundy highlighting the DC Metro Aviation Unit at Verticalmag.com and the Vertical YouTube page.Thank you to our sponsors Airbus, Dallas Avionics and Metro Aviation.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!In this episode of The Hangar Z Podcast, Vertical Valor’s Scott Dworkin and Jon Gray visit the Kern County Sheriff's Department Aviation Unit at their hangar in Bakersfield, California. While there, we witnessed the operation of their impressive aviation program. During the podcast, we discuss the evolution of their aviation program, the aircraft they fly, the missions they support, and the challenges they face in operations. We talk about the importance of oil and agriculture in the local economy, the legacy of country music in Bakersfield, and the assignments available at the Kern County Sheriff's Department. The conversation touches on mental health in law enforcement and ends with some lighthearted stories from the field. We get an opportunity to talk about the advantages we gain from new and developing technology in law enforcement aviation, the importance of partnerships, and the role of debriefs in improving operations. They also touch on the challenges faced by air support programs and the importance of tracking and reporting data. Overall, the conversation provides insights into the operations and advancements in law enforcement aviation.Thank you to our sponsors Bell, Collins Aerospace and Metro Aviation.