UPDATE: A remarkable effort to rescue animals unfolded at Culpeper Regional Airport in Virginia, where volunteer pilots successfully transported 117 animals as a tribute to Seuk Kim, who tragically died in a plane crash during a rescue mission on November 24, 2024. This ambitious airlift marks a significant increase in operations, showcasing the incredible response from the community and volunteers.
On a sunny late-fall Sunday, 16 passengers disembarked from a small private plane, embodying hope and compassion. Among them were 13 dogs and 3 cats, including a timid pit bull mix named Jenny and her seven puppies, all rescued from overcrowded shelters. The airlift, which has become a weekly mission for the group now known as Seuk’s Army, aims to transport animals from overwhelmed Southern shelters to foster homes in the Northeast.
Sydney Galley, co-founder and CEO of Seuk’s Army, expressed the emotional weight of the occasion, stating, “Everybody really feels it. He would be so excited to see us with so many dogs.” Kim, a passionate pilot and animal lover, had dedicated himself to rescue flights, often flying multiple missions each week. His commitment to helping animals was evident, especially following Hurricane Helene when he delivered supplies to those in need.
The tragedy struck when Kim’s 1986 Mooney M20J plane went down in New York’s Catskill Mountains after he reported turbulence. While Kim and one dog perished in the crash, two other dogs survived and were later adopted. Following this devastating loss, many volunteers questioned the future of the organization. However, Kley Parkhurst, a fellow pilot, reminded them of the inherent risks aviators accept, encouraging them to continue Kim’s legacy.
In the year since Kim’s passing, Seuk’s Army has seen a surge in support, with operations now transporting two to three times as many animals as before. The network, which relies on volunteer pilots using their own planes, has also expanded its fundraising efforts, including events like a 5K charity run last June at the airport. Local officials are seeking donors to establish a dedicated area for the animals at the airport, further enhancing their mission.
The need for rescue flights is critical, especially as shelters across the nation face overwhelming numbers of animals. Kyli Putzek, director of Heard County Animal Control Center in Georgia, noted that her facility, which previously faced overcrowding, now collaborates with Seuk’s Army to transport up to eight pets a week. “It wouldn’t be the same story without the rescue flights,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of these operations in saving lives.
Volunteers donned T-shirts bearing Kim’s image as they unloaded and cared for the animals during the memorial flights last month. Flights involved meticulous coordination, spanning approximately 16 airfields and relying on multiple pilots to navigate challenging weather conditions. As departure times approached, anxious dogs lined up on the tarmac, ready for their journeys to safety.
Among the rescued animals were Daisy, a bloodhound whose owner had passed away, and Copper, a hound surrendered due to a divorce. Jenny and her puppies faced euthanasia at an Alabama shelter before being rescued. The volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure every animal found a loving home.
As the planes took to the skies, co-pilot Michael Nuzback engaged with the puppies, sharing moments of joy amidst the serious mission. The flights concluded at Groton-New London Airport in Connecticut, where local rescue groups eagerly awaited the arrivals, ready to provide warm homes for the animals.
This extraordinary effort serves as a testament to the resilience and compassion of the community, honoring Seuk Kim’s legacy while saving countless lives in the process. As the organization continues to grow, the urgent need for animal rescue remains at the forefront of their mission, with no signs of slowing down.
For those wishing to support Seuk’s Army, contributions can make a significant difference in the lives of animals in need. Stay tuned for more updates on their ongoing efforts and upcoming events.
