The company I work for puts on the largest coal mine rescue competition in the country. Down here in Kentucky, coal mining is big business, and no matter whether it is the best fuel source or not, the people here live for this type of work. I spent 2 days photographing the event and it was an eye opening experience. I have new respect for these miners, especially the rescue teams. No matter what the conditions, they will enter a mine to rescue their fellow miners trapped deep into a mine. You can see some of the equipment they have to wear to get into the mines and keep themselves safe.
One miner told me a story about a rescue they had last year, where they had to crawl into a shaft that was 2 feet high. A fire in the mine required them to crawl on their stomach, pushing their oxygen tanks with temperatures over 130 degrees. They got in, put out the fire and rescued 4 miners. They were approximately 2 miles deep during this rescue. They risked their lives to save others. They were very humble and consider this just another day at the office. Everyone on the rescue teams volunteered for the job. They train many hours a year and compete in these events so they will be ready if a disaster ever happens. I got a chance to talk with some of the wives and children of the rescuers and they are the most caring, supportive, and proud people I have ever met. It really was a great experience.
Jul 13, 2012 at 10:16 PM
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