Matzil Training Exercise Turns Into a Rescue Operation

By M. C. Millman

During a five-hour navigation training session at Kakiat County Park, Matzil Search and Rescue ended up in the right place at the right time when they happened across an injured hiker in need of assistance.

The hiker, suffering from a possible fractured ankle, was carried down the trail by the volunteers on Matzil's all-terrain stretcher.

"An incident like this would usually go to Chaverim of Rockland or the local fire department," Shulem Greenfield, Matzil board member shared with Rockland Daily. "Since we were already on the scene, it made sense for us to take care of the rescue along with Spring Hill Ambulance Corp and Rockland County Sheriff's Department."

Matzil's volunteers are made up of an elite group of expert members, most with years of experience. Would-be-members must undergo half a year of intense training, including building a shelter and surviving in the woods. Members must also pass a certification exam given by the National Association of Search and Rescue.

"Our goal," a board member shares, "is to be able to assist anywhere in the country and around the world - wherever anyone needs help. When it comes to extreme conditions, we want to be there to help out."

Matzil will be holding a Hike-4-Matzil event on Sunday, September 4, where the community will get together for a day of family fun to show support for Matzil. Men are welcome to join the Matzil Search and Rescue team on a 2.5-mile hike to the top of Kakiat County Park mountain with a 700-foot elevation and views overlooking Rockland County and surrounding areas. A carnival and barbeque for the hikers' families will follow the hike. Registration can be made at matzil.org/hike2022.