Community Support Greatly Appreciated
 
By PIO / Fire Prevention Officer Scot Best
April 6, 2021
 

The Ridge VFD would like to thank and recognize all the people that participated in the search for the missing Clark boys. The search started in the afternoon hours of Monday, April 5th (pausing at nightfall) and continued until the early evening of Tuesday, April 6th. The local authorities working this event alongside the Ridge VFD were: St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Naval District Washington Fire Department (St. Inigoes), Seventh District VFD (Boat 5), Second District VFDRS (Boat 6), St. Mary’s County Emergency Communications, US Coast Guard, US Navy SAR helo, Civil Air Patrol, Calvert County Sheriff’s Office, Smith Point Rescue (VA), and the Ridge VFD Auxiliary. The Command Post was set-up at the Ridge Firehouse, and was led by the SMC Sheriff's Office and MD DNR. Many local citizens showed up as early as 7:30am to help search land and water, and/or provide support with food and drink donations. Several restaurants also supported by bringing food donations. Multiple local and regional news outlets called or came by the Firehouse for interviews. We received calls all day long from citizens looking for ways to help.

After a very long day of water, land, and air searches, the boys were finally located unharmed by Westmoreland County (Virginia) police near Coles Point, VA.

The show of support from the community was overwhelming, impressive, and greatly appreciated! Thank you to all that helped!