August 29th 2015
During a training exercise near Ohua ski field/ Mt Sutton a squad has become stranded up on the mountain by a grade 3 avalanche. The troops were taking part in a combined defense incentive between United States Army, British Army and New Zealand Army for improved training for combat in mountainous conditions. Over 1000 personnel are involved with the exercise however at the time of the incident only one squad was within the vicinity.
The squad involved consisted of 7 New Zealand Army personnel and two United States Rangers, all whom which were trained and equipped ready for the eventuality of an avalanche. The seven NZ army personnel consist of one Staff Sergeant>one corporal (medic)> five privates. The US Rangers are both Corporals one being a designated marksman and the other a rifleman. These US Rangers are well trained and have already been on combat tours, there duty here is to advise help train the NZ personnel for combat situations.
-Gear Carried among the squad are:
Weapons
>M4A3 Carbine (US)
>Mk 14 EBR (US)
>M9 Pistol (US)
>Steyer Aug (NZ)
>FN Minimi C9 (NZ)
>P226 Pistol (NZ)
Equipment
>
RT-1702G Manpack Radio (SL)
>AN/PRC-343 Squad inter-personnel radios
>Knife
>Compass + Map
>Battle Dress Uniform
>Plate carrier rig
>Winter Camo Poncho
>Avalanche Transmitters
>Bergen (to carry gear)
>Flares
>Smoke
>Torches
Medical + Consumables
>Food
>Water
>Morphine
>Tourniquet
>Bandages (pressure elastic)
>Epinephrine
After the avalanche hit at 1800hrs two personnel have been injured, one fractured wrist and one broken leg as well as lacerations from debris. In addition to this heavy weapons such as the Minimi, as well as bergens containing ammunition where dropped in an attempt to lighten to escape the Avalanche.
The weather on the mountain is worsening and no evacuation can be conducted until it clears and the mountain is confirmed safe. NZ Airforce NH90 helicopters are on standby for evacuation of the stranded squad though the estimated time till the weather is clear is at least 24hours.
Hypothermia is a serious consideration for the squad since night is fast approaching and shelter is number one priority. Being caught in the wake of the avalanche has left them all covered in snow, getting themselves out of the elements, warm and tending to injuries is key for them until rescue.
KEY CONSIDERATIONS
- SHELTER
- WARMTH
- SAVING BURIED PEOPLE
- RETRIEVING BURIED EQUIPMENT
- HELPING INJURED PERSONNEL
- SIGNALLING RESCUE
THIS PERSONA IS A WORK IN PROGRESS
