The Annual Mt. Hood Search & Rescue Golf Benefit is held in posthumous honor of Lt. Col. John Keyes of the 939th Search and Rescue Wing and the Mt. Hood Ski Patrol.

John had a great zest for life. His first love was flying, but if he wasn't flying, you would find him on the slopes or on the golf course.

John joined the Mt. Hood Ski Patrol in 1971 and has Patrol No. 662. He was an exceptional leader and held many offices in the Patrol. As President, Vice President, Assistant Patrol Chief (twice), Secretary, Trainer, Trustee and Hill Captain, he led by example with his cool head and his sense of humor. He knew how to get the most out of those working with him while making it a fun experience for everyone.

In the 939th Search and Rescue Wing, John achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He achieved recognition as a leader, instructor and navigator. It was in this service that he lost his life along with nine of his crew members in a rescue training mission off the coast of California on November 22, 1996.

We all miss John. But he left us with wonderful memories. What better way to honor those memories than to have a great time, play golf and laugh while doing something that is of significant benefit to the Ski Patrol he loved.