Erwin, United States - September 27, 2024

In a scene reminiscent of disaster movie spectacles, Virginia State Police helicopters, alongside Ballad Health and the Tennessee National Guard, executed a high-stakes rescue operation, saving approximately 54 individuals trapped by floodwaters on the roof of Unicoi County Hospital. This dramatic rescue unfolded late on September 27th, as the remnants of Hurricane Helene left a trail of destruction in its wake, transforming the hospital into an island surrounded by tumultuous waters.

Two helicopters from the Virginia State Police Aviation unit in Abingdon, Virginia, were the primary heroes of the day, managing to airlift around 40-45 people to safety. The operation, marked by precision and urgency, showcased the seamless partnership between Ballad Health, through its involvement in the Virginia State Police Med-flight 2 program, and the rapid response capabilities of the Tennessee National Guard.

The hospital, normally a beacon of health and safety, had itself become a scene of peril as floodwaters rose, cutting off all ground access. Patients, staff, and visitors found themselves stranded, with the only refuge being the hospital's roof. The sound of helicopter blades cutting through the storm-ladened air brought with it a wave of relief, as one by one, those trapped were lifted to safety.

"The coordination between the Virginia State Police, Ballad Health, and the Tennessee National Guard was nothing short of extraordinary," said a spokesperson for the rescue operation. "This is a testament to the readiness and capability of our emergency services to respond in the most challenging circumstances."