LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga., Jan. 3, 2011 – Thirty-seven members of the Georgia State Defense Force (GSDF) deployed here January 2, 2012, from 7:45 p.m. until midnight to assist in the search for 72-year-old Chang Petersen, who reportedly went missing from her home at approximately 1:30 p.m.

The mission of the Georgia State Defense Force is to provide an organized, trained, disciplined, rapid response volunteer force to assist state and local government agencies and civil relief organizations during emergencies to ensure the welfare and safety of Georgia citizens. The GSDF's members help support and augment the Georgia National Guard, provide professional skills to the Georgia Department of Defense, and assist Georgia communities. Volunteers are trained to assist the National Guard, provide search and rescue, medical support, and disaster relief.

A Mattie’s Call was issued Monday afternoon for Petersen after her son reported her missing.  Her son – who has been caring for her for the past eight years – stated that she suffers from mild dementia but that she has never done anything like this before.

Adding to the concern of the family and searchers was the cold temperatures and wind chills falling into single digits over night. Petersen was last seen with a brown parka, blue hat, and dark pants. 

GSDF personnel assisted the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Department, Suwanee Police Department, and the Hall County Bloodhound Unit in searching the park near Petersen’s home, wooded areas around and along Interstate-85, and surrounding neighborhoods. Searchers are back out this morning continuing the effort.

Anyone with any information should contact the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Department at (770) 513-5390.