He’s spent 20 years finding the lost. Now he’s sharing what he’s learned
Published at | Updated at
For more than 20 years, Scott Hammond has gone looking for people who are lost.
As a member of the Utah County Sheriff’s Office search and rescue team, Hammond has taken part in more than 400 rescue missions. Along the way, he and his search-and-rescue dog, Boo, have traveled thousands of miles, met people on some of the worst days of their lives and experienced moments that have stayed with him long after the missions ended.
Now, Hammond is turning those experiences into stories.
His latest book, “Finding Still Water” — which comes out Oct. 7 — is the fourth book in his search-and-rescue series. While the book is fiction, many of its stories are inspired by real rescue missions and the people Hammond has encountered throughout his career.
Hammond joins Rett Nelson this week on It’s Worth Mentioning to talk about the experiences that shaped his career, his books and what it really takes to search for someone who can’t find their way home.
He explains what first drew him to search and rescue and takes us behind the scenes of a mission — from the uncertainty and urgency to the moments when every second matters. He also shares how Boo has become much more than a working dog, often providing comfort to victims and their families when they need it most.
Hammond recalls one particular rescue that left a lasting impression on him and reveals how even experienced rescuers can be deeply affected by what they encounter.
RELATED | Idaho Falls man and his dog rescued after weeklong search in Wyoming mountains
But this conversation goes beyond search and rescue.
Hammond shares the lessons he’s learned from two decades of looking for people in the wilderness — lessons that also apply to anyone who has ever felt lost physically, spiritually or emotionally.
Whether you’ve followed Hammond’s work for years or are hearing his story for the first time, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.
To order his books or learn more, visit his website.
Watch previous episodes of “It’s Worth Mentioning” here. Check out the show on Facebook. If you have a tip, guest idea, or comment, email rett@eastidahonews.com.