James Rodriguez

Thomas, respond.

The radio crackled.

Emily's voice came through with practiced, come movement on your 3-0.

Approximately 20 yards ahead, we adjusted course following her direction, but took flanking position, moving with combat precision.

Despite the uneven terrain, we found Thomas' pack first discarded beside a fallen log, then his radio 10 feet further along.

His boot prints continued up a steep incline toward a rocky outcropping.

He's climbing, Scott said, pointing to disturbed moss and freshly exposed soil on the nearly vertical face.

The outcropping rose approximately oft, foring a small cliff face too steep for safe ascent.

Without proper equipment, especially in fading light.

Thomas's desperation had apparently overwhelmed his training.

Thomas.

I called again, louder this time.

Hold position.

We're coming up.

No response.

I estimated sunset in approximately 22 minutes.

Night climbing would be suicidal on unfamiliar terrain.

I'm going up.

I decided securing my sidearm and testing the first handholds.

Radio.