The search at Flaming Gorge after a deadly ATV crash earlier this month taxed the community to the soul but helped to reveal its true heart. Sweetwater County Sheriff John Grossnickle wrote a letter to the community in appreciation for the search efforts. “I want to take a moment to express my sincerest gratitude and appreciation to…[the countless] first responders, volunteers and concerned citizens throughout the community, for your selfless and courageous efforts in the recent search and recovery operation at Flaming Gorge Reservoir, which sadly involved the tragic deaths of a local father and his young son,” shared the Sheriff. “Sometimes horrific and unexplainable things happen to otherwise good people. Despite the sobering conclusion to this heartbreaking situation, it is truly only by virtue of your collective professionalism, expertise, collaborative spirit, resiliency and tireless sacrifice that we were able to successfully provide this family with the small comfort of closure that they so desperately needed and deserve. I am genuinely humbled and inspired by your steadfast resolve in continuing to proudly answer the call to serve, no matter the mission. While our hearts, thoughts and prayers remain with this family in their time of grief and devastation, and as we turn to reflect on life’s frailties within our own lives and families, please take pride in knowing that you and those who serve alongside you represent the very best our community has to offer.”
