VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue

Urban Search and Rescue Team from Fairfax County, VA - Sponsored by @ffxfirerescue - @fema for domestic and @StateDept for international responses.

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

A heartfelt thank you to all of our international participants and observers at our recent full-scale exercise! Special recognition to our colleagues from Australia 🇦🇺 - we’re grateful for your commitment to mentoring us as we prepare for our 2027 reclassification.

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

Last week, @LACOFD joined us for a 96-hour exercise simulating a 7.9M earthquake response - testing rescue, medical care, logistics & coordination.

Interoperability & preparedness aren’t just goals. They’re a commitment we train for every day. @ffxfirerescue @USForeignAssist

[USForeignAssist @USForeignAssist]

Through these trainings and deployments with @StateDept following disasters overseas, @VATF1 & @LACOFD hone skills they can use to save American lives when disasters strike here at home.

[USForeignAssist @USForeignAssist]

This week, @StateDept staff observed urban search and rescue training exercises led by @VATF1 and @LACOFD. Following disasters, the new Bureau for Disaster and Humanitarian Response can activate USAR teams from Fairfax and Los Angeles Counties to deploy worldwide within hours.

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

@vatf1 regrets to announce the passing of retired #canine Ivan. Ivan deployed internationally and domestically and served for 10 years. We thank Ivan for his dedicated global service and extend our deep condolences to his family & the members of the canine section.
@ffxfirerescue

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

Congrats to Battalion Chief Jeff Lewis on his retirement from Fairfax County USAR & @ffxfirerescue! 28 years of service, 6 as Program Manager, 17 deployments, and a legacy that will live on in every mission and member he leaves behind. Best of luck as Fire Chief of Falmouth, MA!

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

Recently, Structural Engineering specialists from our team participated with the @VaFirePrograms Special Operations Division to enhance the state curriculum on trench rescue.

Another example of our international expertise working right here at home!

[Fairfax County Fire/Rescue @ffxfirerescue]

Today the women and men of Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department celebrated the life of Master Technician Raul Perla, who died on 3/5/26 from occupational cancer. His legacy will have a lasting impact in FCFRD & the urban search & rescue community. He will be greatly missed.

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

Congratulations to #K9 Piper and handler Kat on passing the FEMA #Canine Certification Evaluation (CE) this past weekend in Miami! They excelled in this rigorous exam and add additional capacity to our outstanding canine section.

@ffxfirerescue

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

He was known internationally for his work as an instructor, member of the United Nations Disaster Assessment and Coordination (UNDAC) team, and exercise coordination.

His selfless service to this team and his community will leave a lasting impact. He will be greatly missed.

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

With deep sadness, @vatf1 announces the line-of-duty-death of Master Technician Raul Perla from occupational cancer. He was a 20 year member of our team, deploying to 12 disasters. He was an exceptional leader, mentor, and friend, known for his life motto, “Others Before Self”.

[Fairfax County Fire/Rescue @ffxfirerescue]

With deep sadness FCFRD announces the line-of-duty death of Master Technician Raul Perla on 3/5/26 from occupational cancer. MTech Perla served with FCFRD for 28 years. He retired in December 2023. He was known for his life motto, “Others Before Self”. He will be greatly missed.

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

Congratulations to K9 Touché + handler Tiffany, & K9 Zill + handler Dustin, on passing the FEMA Canine Certification Evaluation (CE) this past weekend in Arizona! Both handlers & dogs excelled in this rigorous exam & add capacity to our outstanding canine section. @ffxfirerescue

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

Recently, we recognized @fairfaxcounty Executive Bryan Hill for his steadfast leadership and unwavering support of our mission.

His commitment to our team strengthened our capabilities and helped ensure we remain ready to serve communities here at home and around the world.

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

Each year, we recognize members retirements. Thank you for the lasting impact you’ve made on our organization and our community!

- Steve Bonkoski – 7 Missions
- Charlotte Grove – 13 Missions
- Gregg Dojak – 8 Missions
- Matt Burns – 24 Missions
- Sam Porter – 12 Missions

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

This award is presented annually to a team member who exemplifies selflessness by consistently prioritizing the well-being of the team and others. The recipient works to improve team dynamics, develop skill sets, mentor the next generation, and foster a supportive environment.

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

VA-TF1 recently awarded the Mike Tamillow Award of Excellence, created in honor of former Chief Tamillow’s exceptional contributions to national and international search and rescue. Congratulations to this year’s recipient, Captain Nate Larkin!

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

Congratulations to Sally & K9 Ranglr for completing the Live Find Canine Certification Evaluation last month! Ranglr is a 4 year old Australian Cattle Dog Mix, and is now officially certified and ready to serve communities in need.

@ffxfirerescue

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

As our mission in Jamaica comes to a close, we’re inspired by the incredible strength and resilience of the Jamaican people. Wishing you continued progress and healing as recovery continues.

@USEmbassyJA
@StateDept
@ffxfirerescue

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

USA-01 has been demobilized by @StateDept for the #HurricaneMelissa response to #Jamaica after 13 days. The team will return home to Fairfax County later this evening.

@ffxfirerescue
@USEmbassyJA

[VA-TF1 / USA-01 - Urban Search and Rescue @VATF1]

Shelters bring people together - especially after disaster strikes. Our teams helped one shelter reopen by putting a temporary roof back over it, giving the community a safe place to gather and recover from #HurricaneMelissa in #Jamaica.

@ffxfirerescue
@USEmbassyJA