Mount misery and stuck in the mud

Saturday, May 10th, 2025, at 4:57 p.m. (ET), we received a request for help with an off-road recovery in New Jersey. The requester, Anthony Brace, submitted the following information: “Mount misery and stuck in the mud. Jeep Wrangler and no equipment. Side by side, trying to help us right now, but might need a truck / I’m with the vehicle / I can help cover the cost of fuel.”

Our administrator, Al Fontan, contacted the requester and verified the contact information provided, GPS location, and current situation before sending the request to local volunteers. In this particular recovery, we contacted volunteers within a 20-mile radius.

From the group of contacted volunteers, we had Blaine Gallaher take over the recovery. In less than one hour, he was able to take care of the recovery using a kinetic rope. He later sent us a quick note we share below.

From Blaine

Notification received via text message, system seemed to work well.  Portal 1 hour off, assuming daylight savings error.  First alert I had received by text message and was driving, so I did not intuitively change from viewing status.  I was in family suv when alert received, but returned home about 30 mins later.  Noticed stuck location was about 35 mins from my house so I jumped in the jeep and headed that direction.  I am very familiar with the area and wholly expected things to be handled quickly, it is a high traffic area and on a weekend but went out anyways.  

Arriving on scene, stock wrangler sunk down in water/mud hole with steep walls ahead and behind.  F-350 lined up for the pullout with a 3″ x 25ft strap, a sxs and another stock jeep nearby with 4-6 men out and about.  Appears to have been unsuccessful a few times with strap, offered up kinetic rope and was initially rejected.  After another unsuccessful pull, kinetic rope utilized, first tug popped jeep up and out a couple feet.  2nd tug full recovery.  No injuries, no damage, good group of people just unfamiliar with anything but a static pull or winch recovery. Lots of different techniques for recoveries, and each type excels in different situations.

We want to express our gratitude to Blaine for taking the time to assist in this recovery process and for sharing a valuable note. Having firsthand information from the individuals involved in the recovery is incredibly beneficial. Thank you, Blaine.