Kindness
I am writing this in recognition of all the kindness that myself and three other of my fellow firefighters experienced while helping on the Valley Fire. The kind words that we heard while we were in lake county to assist with the Valley Fire were amazing, also seeing how resilient people are and how strong the human spirit can really be. Everyday while I was there I was impressed how well people were holding up through all the tragedy and adversity that has been placed in front of them.
Two nights our crew went out to get a meal the first night was at TNT Mexican restaurant and when we pulled our engine up, parked and walked in, people clapped, shook our hand, and said thank you, it was very humbling. We ate our dinner and when it was time to pay we were informed that one family had paid for our sodas and ice tea and two women behind us had picked up our meal. Another night we ate at Park Place Restaurant and a lady who said she was a local dispatcher picked up our bill, but left before we could personally thank her and give her a hug.
On both occasions we never got names of the people and for me this is a chance to thank them for there generosity in a time of need. If they are reading this I want them to know it did not go unnoticed or unappreciated.
I know the communities will be fine over in Lake, Sonoma, and Napa counties with people like this in them and I also know we only witnessed a small portion of all the great people in the area. I wish all the people affected by the Rocky, Jerusalem, and Valley Fire they very best.
Cody Killion, Fort Bragg Fire Dept.
