An Off-Duty Air Force Hero Saves Fallen Hiker On Yosemite's Half Dome
A true hero from the U.S. Air Force, even in his off-duty hours, fearlessly jumped into action to rescue a fallen hiker with severely injured legs on the towering slopes of Yosemite's iconic Half Dome.
Captain Joshua Haveman, a flight instructor with the 60th Air Evacuation Squadron, showcased remarkable bravery and ingenuity during an off-duty rescue mission in Yosemite National Park. The intense rescue operation took place on September 2, 2023, as Haveman was completing his final ascent of Half Dome, a towering peak standing at 8,842 feet. The situation unfolded when a fellow climber fell around 60 to 80 feet, landing on a narrow ledge suspended over an abyss of more than 8,000 feet.
"I knew people were in trouble as soon as I reached the summit," Haveman said. "It was cold and windy, and climbers were struggling to descend along a slick metal cable on even slicker granite. I dropped my backpack, grabbed my medical kit, and headed towards the commotion. Just then, I heard a scream and saw a climber sliding down about 80 feet, landing on the only spot that could have saved him—a 6-foot by 1 1/2-foot ledge, preventing a fall of 500 to 1,000 feet."
Without hesitation, Haveman took action. Despite the harsh winds and hail, he ventured outside the permanent cable barriers to reach the injured climber. His climbing expertise and extensive medical training were indispensable in this life-threatening situation.
Haveman recalled the scene, stating, "The climber's legs were badly injured, so I collected sticks from the sub-dome and began climbing onto the ledge. Other climbers were concerned for my safety, but the injured climber was in excruciating pain, so I left the cable area and joined him on the ledge."
Using makeshift splints crafted from sticks, Haveman provided essential first aid by stabilizing the tibia/fibula fracture and wrapping the injured ankle with an ace bandage. To shield the climber from the elements and apparent shock, Haveman selflessly covered him with his jacket.
Moments later, a Search and Rescue Park Ranger arrived, and Haveman seamlessly transitioned into a supporting role. Together, they facilitated the patient's descent using a cable ladder, administered further critical medical treatment, and provided care for shock.
Ultimately, the climber was airlifted to safety via helicopter, receiving the urgent medical attention required. Haveman's swift and selfless actions prevented what could have been a tragic outcome.
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