Chesterfield County, Va. — The MedFlight team from Chesterfield County Fire and EMS and Virginia State Police began the week with a series of high-stakes rescues in Virginia’s rugged mountain terrain. The team, which specializes in technical helicopter rescues, was called into action on both Monday and Tuesday to assist in two separate emergencies.
The first rescue occurred on Monday, March 31, when the team was requested by the U.S. Park Service to help extract an injured hiker from Old Rag Mountain in Madison County. A 67-year-old woman had suffered an injury while hiking, and MedFlight was dispatched to assist in her emergency extraction.
“We received the call and immediately started coordinating with everyone involved,” said Greg Jones, Chief Flight Paramedic with MedFlight. “The pilot was monitoring weather conditions, while my partner Anya and I were preparing the helicopter for a hoist rescue.”
The injured woman was successfully hoisted into the helicopter and flown to a nearby hospital for treatment. However, the crew’s work didn’t end there. The very next day, on Tuesday, another rescue was required in Rockbridge County at the Devil’s Marbleyard. A 15-year-old hiker had sustained a leg injury while navigating the challenging terrain.
With favorable weather conditions and clear visibility, the MedFlight team was able to quickly locate the patient and formulate a plan for rescue.
“It was perfect conditions for a rescue,” said Russell Horn, Flight Paramedic with Chesterfield’s MedFlight team. “We had great winds, ideal temperatures, and excellent visibility, which made it easier to spot the hiker and execute the rescue.”
In a heartwarming moment following the rescue, Jones described the team’s reaction when the injured teenager was safely lifted into the helicopter. “We just gave each other a hug when she got into the helicopter,” he said, reflecting the emotional bond the team shares with the individuals they save.
This year marks a significant milestone for Chesterfield County’s MedFlight service, which is celebrating 41 years of operation. Since its inception in 1984 as part of a pilot program, the team has successfully completed over 21,000 missions, cementing its reputation as a vital resource for rescuing individuals in need across Virginia.
“Being part of MedFlight is the pinnacle of anyone’s career in fire and EMS,” Jones said. “We take pride in the service we provide, not just to Chesterfield County, but to the entire Commonwealth of Virginia.”
The MedFlight crew’s quick responses and dedication to saving lives in difficult, high-risk situations continue to make them an indispensable part of Virginia’s emergency response system. As outdoor activities increase in popularity, the need for such specialized rescue services remains ever more critical.
