Re: ER 11/20 HELICOPTER CRASH

[CRobertsB219@aol.com]

Dearest colleagues, 

I have to admit, I was a little disturbed by the depiction of the helo crash 
last night.  Having been the unfortunate victim of a hard landing (civilian 
job at Lifeflight, and not last night's depiction obviously) and witness to 
three other helo crashes (military), I find the potential there very realistic.  
Not that I wanted to see it, but not that I believe it couldn't happen.. As a 
pilot, I recognize that autorotation is a very unpredictable, and oftentimes 
very uncontrollable.. and alas, that could happen.. Did they use flight 
principles and dynamics to their advantage for ratings and increase viewing.. You 
betcha.. if you think that it is completely "Hollywood" and can't happen that 
way.. You are wrong.  Rotorstrikes are common, and devastating to the physics 
involving airships when following a landing that can break away struts or landing 
gear. That definitely hit us where we live, love and work. but the ultimate 
reality is that those incidents (fortunately) are few and far between.  Kudos to 
our pilots and aircrew, who make this industry one of the safest in the 
world.  But don't kid yourself.. Our job is dangerous, as is any worth doing.  We 
are lucky to have the best of the best doing the work that is most vital to 
patient care and progression within the medical industry.  We couldn't expect to 
not be affected, but it cannot deter us from our mission at hand.  Providing 
the best care possible, despite the odds, and despite the risks.  My most 
solemn thanks to you and your colleagues, friends and coworkers for the commitment 
you have, and the benefit you bring. 

Respectfully, 

Carl Roberts
B.S., CCEMTP, FP-C
US Army Special Forces
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