06/27/2026
Alaska Mountain Rescue Group (AMRG) is honored to be a co-recipient of the 2026 Mel Nading Award for its critical role in the Twentymile avalanche recovery mission.
In March 2025, three individuals were caught in a large avalanche and swept into a deep canyon, with burial depths up to 40 m.
Recovery was not possible until late summer, after numerous reconnaissance flights and physical attempts.
Our team members operated in challenging technical terrain and once-in-a-career conditions. Throughout the operation, AMRG demonstrated exceptional teamwork, technical skill, and a strong commitment to returning the fallen to their families and to the well-being of responders. Our members' efforts exemplified the professionalism and resilience required to successfully complete demanding search-and-rescue operations in Alaska. The team’s actions during the missions reflect the very best of Alaska’s search-and-rescue community.
But their efforts alone were not enough. The mission was a testament to the extraordinary collaboration, professionalism, and perseverance that define Alaska's search-and-rescue community.
We are deeply grateful to the many outside experts who provided guidance and support, and we would like to recognize several partners who went above and beyond.
Thank you to the following organizations: the Girdwood Volunteer Fire Department, Chugach Powder Guides, and the State of Alaska DPS aviation unit based at Lake Hood.
DPS Aviation has been, and will continue to be, one of AMRG's most valuable supporters and resources. We would like to acknowledge the teamwork and collaboration with the Helo 3 pilots, crew and the DPS sUAS pilot. They operated at the highest level and lived up to the award named after one of their own.
This award belongs not only to AMRG but also to everyone who contributed their expertise, support, and unwavering dedication throughout this extraordinary mission.
Thank you.
