A coordinated rescue effort took place on the Appalachian Trail on Wednesday, Feb. 26, when the Union County Fire Department (UCFD) and Emergency Medical Services (EMA) responded to a medical emergency involving a hiker two miles into the trail.
The victim, who was experiencing a serious medical condition, was located by a team of both career and volunteer UCFD rescuers. After reaching the patient, the team provided immediate treatment and worked to safely move the individual to a location suitable for extraction.
A Georgia State Patrol helicopter was called in to assist with the rescue. The helicopter hoisted the patient and transported him to Union General Hospital, where he was promptly admitted for further treatment.
