I apologize for climbing on the soapbox. Please thank a cop, firefighter, EMT, SAR volunteer today.
“A song of ascents. I lift up my eyes to the mountains, from where will my help come?” (Psalm 121)
That beautiful Psalm is a song of hope; but in traditional Jewish communities it is also a public cry for salvation in time of great need. This week was such a time.
Santa Fe has many things to recommend it; but to my mind the best of all is the mountains above town. Wherever I go around town, I glance up there and get inspired. I know so many of the trails and paths up there. I’ve spent many hours up there reviving my spirit, talking to God. I’ve spent a few hours up there on search missions, as well. The more I get to know the mountains, the more they inspire me and the more they call me to come back, to seek solitude and solace in ‘God’s country’.
Today I looked up to the mountains as always, out of habit while out on errands. Today I look at the mountains, and I feel sorrow. This week, during the rescue of a lost hiker, New Mexico State Police Unit 606 (helicopter) crashed on the side of Santa Fe Baldy. Down here in town, one can see the big peak of Santa Fe Baldy jutting up behind the closer mountains. Now, I look at Baldy not just to see ‘is there snow’; I look and think of the crew that was lost in the fog and rain and snow the other night. The State Police spotter survived; but the pilot and rescued hiker were both killed. Up in the mountains of solace and beauty this week, New Mexico lost a fine man. Sgt. Andy Tingwall flew his aircraft out in the most noble of enterprises, and gave his life in the attempt.
I didn’t know Sgt. Tingwall, but we were brothers-in-arms. Not arms like bearing weapons; but arms as in ‘lending a hand.’ Arms as in putting an arm around the shoulders of one in need of strength and encouragement. The New Mexico State Police helicopter unit participates regularly in search and rescue missions. Many of us have become familiar with the sight of them overhead; with the sound of the voice on the radio. Sometimes, we train with them and discuss how best to use that valuable human and mechanical resource. This week, that angel plunged from sight and the voice was stilled.
All who fly in search and rescue and medical missions are privileged folks. Privileged and blessed to be engaged in such truly noble and kind endeavours. Privileged to be surrounded by people of such high character; people whose greatest effort is expended in helping others through this world. Our losses are great because of the close knit community; but also because of the mission and the quality of the men and women who choose it. The pathfinders are not only our worldly compass; they provide a moral direction, as well.
We can't all be Andy Tingwalls. Maybe we shouldn't be. But we can all be urged on by his legacy to be stronger and more determined in our efforts to make this world more manageable, safer, more livable for those in need. And we can remember to thank and tangibly support those who do devote themselves to making our society more civil and safe.
God bless you, Andy Tingwall. May your example spur us on with strength and courage and kindness. I mourn our loss, and I pray that we will be worthy of the price you paid in continuing your legacy. I pray that your family will find comfort in due time, and always be proud and blessed for all that you gave them and us.
