Local Divers Head to Texas for Flood Relief

Heroes in the Water: A Journey to Save Lives in Texas

In a small town in Ohio, two determined divers are preparing for a mission that could save lives. Dale Hammon and his nephew Nathaniel Payne are on their way to Hunt, Texas, where they will join rescue efforts following a devastating flood that has claimed over 100 lives and left 160 people missing. Their journey is not just about helping others—it’s about doing what they know best.

A Race Against Time

Dale Hammon, a 70-year-old diver with over 40 years of experience in blackwater diving, is no stranger to high-stakes situations. He and his nephew are making a nearly 24-hour drive from East Liverpool, Ohio, only stopping for fuel. For them, every second counts, and they’re willing to put everything on the line to help those in need.

Their mission involves searching homes that are completely underwater, navigating through zero visibility conditions to find survivors or recover bodies. Hammon is one of around 100 certified Underwater Criminal Investigators in the country, and he knows that these types of rescues require specialized skills. When he saw the news about the floods in Central Texas, he felt an immediate call to action.

A Team of Volunteers

The Calcutta Fire Search and Rescue Team is also heading to Texas to aid in the disaster relief efforts. They will deploy on Wednesday morning with personnel, rescue equipment, and K-9 Solace. Alongside them, Hammon and Payne will be working with a team of retired Navy SEALs who are already waiting in Hunt, Texas, for their arrival.

Despite their expertise, Hammon and Payne are self-funded for their trip. They have a $3,500 budget that covers housing, meals, and equipment. However, they estimate that they’ll need between $7,000 and $10,000 for a 10-day trip, as they’ll be traveling extensively across the area.

Community Support

Toni Delascia, a member of the Living Well Church in Wellsville, played a key role in getting the trip started. She was the first to donate, and her contribution helped kickstart the fundraising effort. Delascia reached out to Pastor Dirk Hall, who pledged to match her donation. Within minutes, they had enough money to get the divers on the road.

Since then, other churches have begun to contribute as well. However, Hammon emphasizes that more support is needed. The mission is far from over, and the challenges they will face are immense. The debris fields in Texas are described as being at least 10 to 15 miles long, with three-story-high piles of cars and trees mixed together. This means the divers will be constantly on the move, searching for survivors in dangerous conditions.

A Commitment to Service

Hammon and Payne are expected to arrive in Hunt around 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday. They plan to stay for over a week, but they won’t leave until they’re no longer needed. Their commitment to service is clear—they’re not just there for the duration of the mission; they’re there for the people who need them most.

For those interested in supporting their efforts, donations can be made through WesBanco by asking to put money into an expenditure account under “Willis Dale Hammon.” The funds will go toward food, fuel, and other essential resources for the rescue mission.

Making a Difference

This story is a testament to the power of community and the importance of individual action. In times of crisis, it’s often the unsung heroes—like Hammon and Payne—who step up and make a real difference. Their journey to Texas is not just about saving lives; it’s about showing what can be achieved when people come together for a common cause.