The Northwest Arctic Borough Search and Rescue Team was planning to leave at dawn Monday to search for Thomas Brown. Thomas Brown is one of two teens who fled Kotzebue on a snowmachine journey to Noorvik a week ago.
Brown was travelling with Josiah Ballot, a Selawik companion. Both of them are 18.
Private plane spotted Ballot’s snowmachine in the area of some GCI towers, 28 miles south-east of Kotzebue on Friday afternoon.
Walter Sampson was a veteran member of the search-and-rescue team and said that Ballot was found shortly after taking cover under a pressure ridge formed on the seaice.
Sampson stated that the airplane had landed near the area. He looked under the chunks ice to see if he was there.
Sampson stated that the ridge of Ice, which protected Ballot against winds and 50-below windchills, saved his life. He was transported to Anchorage for treatment for severe frostbite and hypothermia.
Sampson stated that the cold weather has been difficult on ground teams as well.
“People come in with frostbite on their faces, cold hands and other problems. Sampson stated that when they return, it doesn’t stop them.” “That’s the way the community shows love for the people they are looking for.”
There are approximately 40 volunteers involved in the Northwest Arctic Borough Search and Rescue Team. The team has been supported by community members who have prepared healthy snacks and cooked meals for them. Crew members have been able to share warm clothes with others, and some have also helped maintain snowmachines.
Sampson stated, “It’s an effort that everyone comes together to work together.” We also have search teams in Noorvik Buckland and Selawik, who are also working out these villages.
Samson stated that crews will continue to look for fuel and other supplies as long as they can. He will be asking for help in the days ahead.
