Fires in So Cal meant new experiences, challenges and new friendships.

48 hours later, two very long days and nights, all our stuff was secure. Very thankfull to all the men and women supporting this effort!

The the US Forestry, La Crescenta Sheriff, and LACO Fire, we thank you for saving our homes and keeping our families and loved ones safe.

Special thanks to the Kern Hot Shots Divisional Lead. He had the fore thought to get behind the fire, work his way up the rigde on foot; 3500 feet of vertical elevation. He and his team worked 27 hours before relief came in. They only had what they carried in; nomex clothes, hard hats, goggles, shovels, a variety of fire starters, food and water for 2 days, and a sleeping bag. They had no respirators, nor oxygen bottles. When we arrived, Silvia had fresh foccia bread for them and hot pasta, and I was armed with a dozer and a full tank of diesel. These guys spearheaded the effort to save the forest, they assumed a very offensive position, and took on extreme situations with the weather. All this while the vast majority of early resources were defensively battling the front lines. They were quite happy to put this "volunter" to work and tell me exactly how to support their efforts with the Cat. On a personal level, the Kern Guys are the MVP's in my book, the most professional of professionals, upbeat and positive allways, love their work, and their spirit, real "fighters" and team playersb..And I will forever be greatfull for allowing me to assist, the risks they took and the outstanding results they produced. Cheers to the Kern County Hot Shots!!

Eric P. Wierman

One sentance, "far out" !!!

Joe

Ps the worst conditions bring out the best in people

Eric, I see we had the same week!
http://www.rcgroups.com/forums/showt...7#post10757024

I think I'll stay in New England!