Over the weekend, we learned more about the helicopter accident near Utqiagvik that claimed the lives of the pilot and three Fairbanks-based state employees working for the Division of Geological and Geographical Surveys (DGGS) -see news article here. The members of DGGS, all represented by ASEA, were lost doing a job they loved and this tragedy has cut deeply across DGGS, DNR, SOA, ASEA, Fairbanks, and other Alaska communities.

There is little that prepares any of us for such a profound loss. Our condolences are with the family members, loved ones, colleagues, and friends of our fellow members.

As we provide support and comfort to immediate family and friends facing this tragedy, there are also grief counseling resources through the ASEA Health Benefits Trust for eligible employees. A full list of resources and updates on the accident will appear on the ASEA website (visit link_to_go_here) as more information becomes available.

Please be patient and gentle with yourself and utilize available services through the ASEA Health Trust including:

• The ASEA Health Trust Employee Assistance Program (Six counseling sessions are available each year, including grief counseling)
• ASEA Health Trust Teledoc program (Additional telehealth counseling is available through the use of the Teledoc program)

I believe this catastrophic accident will linger with us as we sort through the heart-breaking loss of our fellow members, co-workers, and friends. 

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