Mounted search and rescue

[<Jorene@CEOates.com>]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Una Smith" <una@lanl.gov>
> Jorene wrote:
> >Apparently you're not aware that NASAR is already changing?
>
> I am aware that there is far more talk about NASAR changing,
> than actual change.

You snipped several examples of positive NASAR changes that are current. ;)

> >You can now take the SARTECH III written test online [...]

> Why bother taking it, except to practice for a real SARTECH
> III exam, eh?

You can take the SARTECH III test in a proctored or non-proctored
environment. For those lacking a proctored/certification environment, the
online test allows people all over the world to test, pass, and receive a
certificate of completion. A team could choose to use this as a basic
standard, a place to start that provides consistency.

> And you pay for the priviledge of practicing.

I don't consider $15 dollars exorbitant when the student who passes receives
a certificate from NASAR, and NASAR maintains a database of all who have
passed the test. The opportunity exists to legitimately claim "SARTECH III
equivalent" ... and have the certificate to prove it.

> >I'm not a lawyer, and I'm not authorized to give anyone
> >permission to do anything
>
> Then please do us all a favor and don't make promises and
> give assurances that you cannot keep.

Una, I have expressed opinions, just as you and others have expressed
opinions. This is common on any discussion group. Incorrect assumptions on
your part don't somehow convert my opinion into a promise. Regardless, it
isn't logical to assume that ANYONE can provide a guarantee about something
that isn't even written yet or approved by NASAR ... especially with NASAR
making changes in their own environment, and ongoing changes nationwide
regarding emergency and disaster response that have potential to impact the
situation.

> >NASAR standards are typically either officially recognized or
> >perceived as a national standard.
>
> No, they are not.  That is your fantasy.

If it will help you understand the big picture better, please re-read recent
posts by Mike Dillard. One comment by Mike rather clearly stated "My point
was that THE organizations that we ALL work for (the top of the food chain,
if you will) in an Emergency Mission recognize NASAR's standards."  The list
includes States' Emergency Management Officials nationwide and Homeland
Defense.

Since Mike is a Captain in the Civil Air Patrol, one would assume that his
source for information of this kind is the US Air Force, but he also
indicates knowledge at his state level in Emergency Management so apparently
also has contacts there.

Una, if you have a reliable and current source that indicates Mike's
information is incorrect, please share that with us. If not, it appears
NASAR standards being recognized or perceived as a national standard isn't
the fantasy you think it is.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Jorene Downs, Committee Chair
NASAR MSAR Standards Committee
visit NASAR on www.nasar.org