Stuart James Searles served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 2 years and 11 months. Stuart served in the Vietnam War and the Cold War.
Sergeant Stuart Searles was killed in a helicopter crash while assisting with search and recovery efforts after a tornado caused heavy damage to the town of Barneveld, Iowa County, Wisconsin. The F5 tornado struck the town on June 8th, 1984, killing nine people. Sergeant Searles was detailed to fly the Wisconsin governor above the devastation the day after the tornado. On June 10th he was again requested to respond to the area to assist with recovery efforts. While en route to the area the Hiller UH-12E helicopter experienced an electrical malfunction that caused the battery to explode as it flew approximately 75 feet above ground, near Merrimac, Wisconsin. Sergeant Searles was able to maneuver the aircraft to an area without bystanders. The aircraft exploded upon impact with the ground, killing Sergeant Searles instantly. Sergeant Searles was a United States Marine Corps Vietnam Veteran and had served with the Sauk County Sheriff's Department for five years. He had previously served with the Windham County, Vermont, Sheriff's Office for seven years.
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In tribute
I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.
Sergeant Searles gave the Sauk County Sheriff's Department 12 years.
Thank you for your service to the Baraboo community, and for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, brother.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
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