To the Editor:

Good afternoon, I would like to publicly thank Justin and Harold of North Star EMS stationed in Rangeley, the Rangeley Fire Department, the Maine Warden Service and the Border Patrol Staff for their rescue and their medical treatment of a friend who was injured in a fall on Bald Mountain in Oquossoc on the afternoon of September 27. I was hosting several friends at Saddleback Lake Lodge for a biking reunion.  The five of us had bicycled near Mooselook and then we decided to try a hike up Bald Mtn.

On the way down, one of our buddies fell and sustained a significant injury and several breaks in his left leg. We found it necessary to call 911. We then experienced the wonderful services and professionalism of the organizations previously named. Those who responded were involved in an extrication that lasted almost two hours.  As hikers, we had not planned for such an event, but from the observations made by my friends and I, it was obvious that the team involved was prepared.

Their expertise did not go unnoticed. Our friend was transported to the emergency department in Farmington and later transferred to Maine Medical Center for surgery in Portland. He continues to recover from his injuries. Again, thank you to all the people involved in his rescue. We feel tremendously fortunate that you were there when we needed you most.

Lee Chick and friends

Rangeley