The Michigan Wing of the Civil Air Patrol joined local first responders at the Hillsdale Municipal Airport on Sunday for a large-scale emergency training exercise.
The drill focused on how different agencies would work together if a plane were to crash. Fire departments from Hillsdale City, Hillsdale Township, Jonesville, North Adams, and Moscow participated. They were joined by Reading Emergency Unit ambulances and local K-9 search and rescue teams.
While fire crews practiced their response, the Hillsdale Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol worked on finding aircraft emergency beacons. They also practiced coordinating their search efforts with rescue dogs to find survivors.
The Civil Air Patrol serves as the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Its members help with search and rescue missions, disaster relief, and aerospace education.
The local group is currently looking for new members to join their team. Those interested in volunteering or learning more can contact Lt. Cassie Hambleton by email at cassie.hambleton@miwg.cap.gov.