To the Editor:

While elk hunting around Thompson Creek recently my husband, Eric Hemmele, became lost. While we are experienced hunters this was the first time we had hunted this area and the only time any of our party have left camp unprepared to spend the night out if necessary. It was the first and last time.

When he was found after three days and two nights at 17 degrees, he was hypothermic, dehydrated, and delirious. He lost his gun and cell phone in terrible falls the first night and his pack, hat, and glasses the second. The memory of the time lost is horrible to recall for him and his family.

We are so grateful for the Grant County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue, many of whom volunteered their time, the National Guard pilots who found him, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, the airplane pilots and all of the volunteers who came out to find a total stranger. We were told there were so many who volunteered there was a list for the next day which fortunately was not needed. We also should credit the doctors, nurses, kitchen and janitorial staff of Blue Mountain Hospital. In our rush to get to Eric we left a wide path of mud throughout the halls.

Todd McKinley of the Sheriff’s department was the ultimate professional while directing the search. He walked some of the hardest terrain and eventually was with the helicopter crew when they found Eric. He hiked in to Eric and carried him out on his back which took about an hour. He has a special place in our hearts and prayers.

We hope your readers realize what a wonderful community you live in because we sure do.

Eric and Lori Hemmele

Milwaukie