Posted: Nov. 12, 2009 11:39 a.m.
Updated: Nov. 12, 2009 11:39 a.m.

Yesterday, a 5-year-old girl disappeared in Fayetteville. Although an arrest was made in her kidnapping, the girl has not been found. Clues are scarce, but a community is involved in finding her. And while everyone searches for this precious little girl, there are many more who want to help.

That’s how our community reacts to tragedy. One such group is a search and rescue unit that is trained, equipped and experienced for this sort of work. I won’t name them because they haven’t been given the green light yet. But, having worked with this group, it’s refreshing to know that there is a resource out there that can step in at a moment’s notice and help law enforcement at no charge to them.

Whether they’re asked to join the search or not, I know Shaniya and her family are being served well. And, heaven forbid, should another child disappear, we can all feel good about the fact that we are surrounded with some of the best search and rescue personnel in the country.