I suspect the above is a pretty common theme with total power loss events.
Craig,
Really sorry to hear you put one in the dirt, regardless of the cause. However, it's great to read how you assessed the situation and developed a means to assure it doesn't happen again.
A suggestion; if and when we experience a fly away or power loss, don't turn off the ST-16. Take a few moments to note the last GPS position displayed on the screen. From personal experience, that data reference can lead you right to where the H is sitting, or very close to it. Just input the location data into Google Earth.