Thurston County Washington Explorer Search and Rescue (TCWESAR) has been highlighted as a finalist for the 2024 Defender Service Award, which recognizes their crucial role in searching for missing persons and providing emergency support services since 1977. Working closely with the Thurston County Sheriff’s office, TCWESAR's dedicated volunteers engage in a variety of missions that include flood control, recovery efforts, and evidence searches. Their video entry for the award showcased the significant impact of their work and earned them a $5,000 prize, although they did not take home the grand prize. In 2023, these volunteers contributed over 6,000 hours to missions and training, emphasizing their commitment to community safety. Notably, TCWESAR has successfully located individuals suffering from conditions such as Alzheimer’s, demonstrating their vital role in life-saving missions.

Each finalist in the award process reflects the dedication to humanitarian efforts, aligning with the Defender brand’s mission. The organization’s ongoing need for resources underscores the importance of community support and donations. Their commitment to training new volunteers ensures that they continually enhance their life-saving capabilities.