Virginia State Police Trooper-Pilots Honored for Unicoi Hospital Flood Rescue

On April 30, 2025, the Children’s Emergency Care Alliance of Tennessee presented the “Mutual Aid State Award” to the Virginia State Police Med-Flight 2 team for their lifesaving rescue operation at Unicoi County Hospital during severe flooding caused by Storm Helene.

On September 27, 2024, two Med-Flight 2 helicopters based in Abingdon, Virginia, crossed into Tennessee to assist with an emergency evacuation. Rising waters from the Nolichucky River had surrounded Unicoi County Hospital, trapping dozens on the roof. Over a four-hour mission, the Med-Flight 2 crews rescued 40 patients and individuals using precision “skid rescues”—a technique in which the helicopter hovers just above the rooftop to avoid compromising the structure.

Limited weather windows in Tennessee prompted the Virginia-based team to respond first. The Tennessee National Guard later joined the effort as conditions improved.

Honorees from the Virginia State Police include Retired First Sergeant Jeffrey W. Bush, Master Trooper-Pilot Bryan W. Canada, and Trooper-Pilot Jacob A. Culp. Also recognized were Ballad Health Flight Nurse April Boyd and Flight Nurse/Paramedic Wayne Carroll. Ballad Health operates both the Med-Flight 2 program in partnership with Virginia State Police and the Unicoi County Hospital.

VSP courtesy photo.

The award highlights the critical role of interstate cooperation and rapid response in emergency situations, especially during extreme weather events.

(From VSP Press Release)