We had uniforms in t
he house, yes everyone, uniforms. These uniforms were none other than those worn by our courageous Kern County Search and Rescue team members. 
We had the pleasure of meeting Captain Lynam and Sergeant Yerania Molina who are both experienced in doing what most people would not consider doing. They are part of a team of community service experts who, get this, do what they do best--as volunteers. Yes, volunteers!
he house, yes everyone, uniforms. These uniforms were none other than those worn by our courageous Kern County Search and Rescue team members. We had the pleasure of meeting Captain Lynam and Sergeant Yerania Molina who are both experienced in doing what most people would not consider doing. They are part of a team of community service experts who, get this, do what they do best--as volunteers. Yes, volunteers!With natural disasters nearby and in adjacent counties to us, Kern Search and Rescue team members are those that brave the worst conditions to preserve life. Aside from natural disasters, we have the Kern River with all of its reputation of danger that lurks in those shallow rapid waters. It is because of these hazards that the rescue team is often deployed.
Capt. Lynam states that our rescue team is a non-profit organization which conducts evacuations, flood rescue, search and rescue (SAR), and various K-9 operations. They have even found themselves risking their lives in the field of public relations speaking to various community groups about the good works of the team. I was surprised to learn the rescue team is not generally funded by the County of Kern. The rescue team is supported financially by donations, fund-raisers, and out-of-pocket by team members.
The only down side to the rescue team’s presentation was that they did not bring any of their highly skilled search dogs to the meeting this morning. Yes, names like Sadie, and Lucy, and Scarlett, just to name a few. But I am sure, just like their trusty handlers, these dogs need their rest too, so a Breakfast Rotary meeting may be a little early for these four-legged heroes.
We are truly indebted to Capt. Lynam and the members of the rescue team. Were it not for their passion for community safety and continued training (that give the rest of us hope when all seems lost) we would all be in very sorrowful places. Thank you team for spending your morning with us. Come back and visit, but understand you are one phone call that not one of us ever hopes to have to make.