SAR Spotlight

Dave originates from Idaho Falls, Idaho. He has worked in the nuclear, aerospace industries, environmental contractor and in private security. In 2010 Dave decided to hang up the everyday and fully retired.

In 1977 Dave moved to Yucca Valley. After his move to Yucca Valley, Dave made the acquaintance of Jerry Woodring, and as Dave tells it, Jerry started search and rescue in the Morongo Basin. Jerry, a master tracker, in both human and animal tracking made a significant impression on Dave. Jerry became a close friend and mentor to Dave. In 1996 Dave was sworn in as a member of Morongo SAR.

Tracking has been Dave's primary search and rescue interest. "I want to be the best". It was fortunate for Dave to make the acquaintance of his Sgt, Coordinator Darrel Heller. As most of you know Sgt. Heller is considered one of the best trackers in the Sheriff's Dept. Many of you may have had Sgt. Heller as your tracking instructor. With two excellent mentors, Dave solidified and continually improved his tracking tradecraft. In June 2015 Dave was the originator and a primary instructor for the inaugural Intermediate Tracking Class held at the SBCSD Search and Rescue Heart Bar Training facility.

During Dave's many years in search and Rescue he has earned his SAR Tec II certification along with Level 1 reserve in 1997, Post Training Reserve officer, OES- Direction and Control of the Search Function, 2005, other certifications include, Basic Investigative Tracking, CSI Shoe & Tire Impression Interpretation, Commander Morongo Basin 2014, 2015. Morongo Basin Station Volunteer of the Year, 2014. Yucca Valley Community Citizen Award 2014. Drivers Awarness Instructor. Just a side note that this just a partial list of Dave's Awards and accomplishments.

"Thank you San Bernardino County Sheriff's Dept. for all you have done for me and the many members of the various units of Search & Rescue".