Truly sad that they died doing what they loved to do.
I can't help think, though, they did not "think this through".
In 1996, I went to Alaska as a DOD contractor for a JCSAR (Joint Combat Search and Rescue) exercise. Part of the exercise called for a pilot to be inserted in to a "remote" area (way out in the boonies) and play the part of the "rescuee". PJ's (Para Rescue) and other assorted special op's types were then inserted into the area to "do the rescue".
All involved were armed. Heavily. 9mm / 12 ga. with 00 buck and slugs.
Live ammo is not the "norm" for an exercise.
Alaska was the reason for the live ammo.
There are critters there that can eat you.
LVM