A little over five years ago, COMSU was born. It began with social meetings in the dining room of Tom and Marie Lester's home. We ate pizza and discussed what the name of this unit would be and how we would run it. Eventually, Central Ohio Mounted Search Unit became official. Interim officers were Cathy Gough as President, Alice Swartz as Vice President, Marie Lester as Secretary and Tom Lester as Treasurer.

A great deal of discussion went into the how the organization would be run, what the name would be, and what the logo would be. It seemed that time stood still as we made these decisions.

During the past five years, a number of significant accomplishments on the part of this organization should be noted:

* We became endorsed by the Licking County Emergency Management Agency.

* We were invited to assist the Licking County Sheriff's Dept. during the Hartford Fair.

* We were invited to a joint simulation with the Licking Co. Sheriff's Dept and the Licking Co. EMA.

* We were assigned radios that are compliant with the emergency services in this area.

* We have been invited to join the Fairfield Co. Sheriff's Dept. in parade efforts.

* We became a 501C3 organization.

* We became partners of the parks and received a commendation in 2007.

* We received a number of grants.

* We acquired a unit trailer and equipment for potential searches.

* We instituted a web site.

* We were invited to demonstrate for Purina Foods at the George Smith farm.

* We were invited to participate in the West Licking Fire Department's Open House.

* We were invited to participate in Kids and Kops Day by the Pataskala Police Dept.

* We were invited to demonstrate at Smoke Rise for Best of America.

* We rode in many parades and made a great statement in the All Horse Parade.

* COMSU was asked to present its mission and trainings to the West Licking Historical Society.

* Members volunteered for the Tri-County Disaster Simulation with several emergency departments last August.

* We participated in four searches:

1. Warren County in Cincinnati
2. Fairfield County
3. Stark County
4. Franklin County

While it took all of us to grow into what we are today, one person has been in the front lines and led this organization seemingly tirelessly. That person is Cathy Gough, and we all owe her our thanks!!