Abstract: A location identification balloon system for use by lost or injured hikers and the like that includes a balloon filled with helium that is secured with a tether and allowed to float above the tree level to allow a search plane or helicopter to readily locate the missing person. Cause the balloon to provide a flickering effect, the balloon has a number of air capturing pockets that cause the balloon to spin in the wind. The balloon and tether are attached by a swivel to allow the balloon to spin freely. The balloon is filled by pulling on a spool driven compression mechanism to cause a compression plate to compress the sealed tip end of a pressurized helium canister over the piercing tube end of a valve.