Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

This episode was recorded on location in Washington, D.C., from the U.S. Park Police aviation hangar, as part of The Hangar Z Vertical Valor Road tour.

We felt this was a great episode to release on Independence Day, the Fourth of July, 2024, which is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence, which was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America.

Jack Schonely and Brent Bundy from Vertical Valor Magazine were invited into the U.S. Park Police Aviation hangar to see firsthand the good work they are doing as they protect the U.S. capital and its surrounding areas.

We had the privilege of talking to and flying with the assistant commander of the aviation Unit, Sgt Tim Ryan, and chief pilot Sgt Ryan Evasick.

Sgt Ryan began his career with the United States Park Police in 2004. After three years as a patrol officer, he transitioned to the Aviation Unit in 2008. Sgt Ryan has held multiple roles within the unit, including rescue technician, chief rescue technician, and currently, assistant commander.

His extensive training includes qualifications as a National Registry paramedic, tactical medic, and expertise in swiftwater rescue and high and low angle technical rescue. Originally from New Hampshire, Sgt Ryan now resides in Maryland with his family.

Sgt Evasick is the chief pilot for the U.S. Park Police. With 21 years of law enforcement experience and flying for the U.S. Park Police since 2013, Sgt Evasick holds commercial helicopter, certified flight instructor (CFI), and certified flight instructor instrument (CFII) ratings. His family includes his wife, a mental health clinician for the Virginia Department of Corrections; his son, a former U.S. Marine; and two beloved grandchildren.

Look out for photos, videos, and an article by Brent Bundy highlighting the U.S. Park Police on Verticalmag.com and the Vertical YouTube page.

We're excited to dive into their experiences, insights, and the incredible work they do with the U.S. Park Police Aviation Unit. So, let's get started and welcome Sgt Tim Ryan and Sgt Ryan Evasick to the Hangar Z Podcast!

Thank you to our sponsors Bell, Collins Aerospace and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical HeliCASTS!

This episode was recorded from the Vertical HeliCASTS studio at HAI Heli-Expo in March.

Co-hosts Jack Schonely and Jon Gray had the opportunity to talk with Lieutenant Clay Lacey from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) about the Axnes wireless intercom system and how it has helped Texas DPS improve communications and situational awareness during flight operations.

Lt Lacey, a distinguished member of the Texas DPS, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the podcast.

Since his special assignment to the Texas DPS Aviation Operations Division in 2000, Lt Lacey has logged thousands of hours in the air, supporting critical missions such as criminal manhunts, surveillance operations, search-and-rescue missions, vehicle and foot pursuits, and airborne use of force. His dedication and skill have not only been pivotal in the field but also in the classroom.

Lt Lacey developed the Texas DPS tactical flight officer (TFO) training program from scratch and currently serves as a TFO instructor, sharing his knowledge worldwide on behalf of the Airborne Public Safety Association and various law enforcement units.

In addition to his instructional roles, Lt Lacey plays a vital part in the procurement and specification of equipment for the Texas DPS and acts as a consultant for emergency management and preparedness planning across the United States.

During this episode, we discuss the Axnes wireless intercom system. This digital, full-mission wireless intercom system is designed to enhance secure communications and situational awareness. The Axnes system is transforming the way airborne teams operate.

Its advanced integration into aircraft radios, mission maps, and intercom systems, along with its waterproof handsets and extensive battery life, make it an indispensable tool for aviation crews.

Thank you to our sponsors, CNC Technologies, Technisonic, and Precision Aviation Group.

Welcome to The Hangar Z Podcast, brought to you by Vertical Helicasts!

In this episode, Jack Schonely and I preview APSCON 2024, happening in Houston, Texas, from July 29th to August 3rd. We are joined by the Airborne Public Safety Association's Executive Director and CEO, Dan Schwarzbach, and Training Program Manager, Dan Knight.

APSCON 2024 is the annual conference for public safety aviation professionals worldwide, offering educational programs, hands-on training, networking opportunities, and the latest in technology and equipment.

Dan Schwarzbach brings 38 years of experience with the Houston Police Department, including 30 years in the Air Support Division. Since 2014, he has served as the Executive Director and CEO of the Airborne Public Safety Association.

Dan Knight began his law enforcement career in 1990, later joining the Federal Air Marshal Service and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. He now serves as the Training Program Manager for the Airborne Public Safety Association.

Tune in for insights on APSCON 2024 and the expertise of these industry leaders.

Thank you to our sponsors Robinson Helicopters, Spectrum Aeromed, and Precision Aviation Group.