SAR group singled out for saving stranded man in backcountry
PARKSVILLE — Arrowsmith Search and Rescue were recognized for likely saving the life of an elderly Bowser man who was found stranded in the bush north of Qualicum Beach.
Arrowsmith Search and Rescue president Nick Rivers said the Vancouver Island District RCMP awarding a Certificate of Appreciation validated the great work their organization of roughly 45 volunteers does.
Jan Baartman, 87, of Bowser was found in the rural bush off Hwy. 19 near the Cook Creek Rd. interchange on Jan. 24.
Rivers said Baartman was lying on the ground trying to stay warm, unable to make it back to his stranded truck.