History

So Others May Live

• In 1956 Explorer Search and Rescue (ESAR) was formed in King County starting with one Explorer post. Search and Rescue (SAR) was in its infancy in the United States and many of the current SAR practices and tactics were developed by the founders of the ESAR program.

• In 1966 the second ESAR unit was formed in Pierce County. It has grown over the years into one of the premier organizations in the Search and Rescue community in the State of Washington.

• ESAR has grown in Washington with 9 counties supporting active ESAR programs. A state organization, Washington ESAR, (WESAR) was formed to ensure consistent standards and training were maintained to provide a quality program throughout the state.

• Pierce County ESAR has significant ability in communications, navigation, first aid, search techniques and administrative skills. ESAR is known as one of the best equipped, best trained and most active ground units in Washington.

• Federal, State, County and City agencies use ESAR's trained personnel and resources in a variety of situations.