Sacramento>> First responders, community leaders and nonprofit organizations that stepped up and supported our communities during the devastating October Firestorm were honored at a special ceremony Friday on the state Senate floor of the state Capitol.
State Sen. Mike McGuire (D-Healdsburg), who represents Lake and Mendocino Counties, said “The North Bay Firestorm will go down as the most destructive and deadly in modern American history. It would have been a lot worse if it wasn’t for the brave efforts of thousands of first responders, neighbors and community organizations who answered the call in our greatest time in need.
“We cannot thank them enough for their tireless work and constant fight during the devastating October fires,” McGuire said, adding that Friday’s ceremony offered “a small token of our tremendous gratitude.”
In recognition of the hard work and bravery demonstrated in one of the darkest days in our state’s history, the Senate hosted NorCal Heroes Day and Day Of Remembrance Friday at the state Capitol. The California State Senate scheduled a special ceremony to honor all first responders, community organizations and residents who served Lake, Napa, Mendocino and Sonoma counties.
Senators McGuire, Bill Dodd, Ted Gaines and Jim Nielsen recognized the local, state and federal agencies that have been instrumental with the disaster response and recovery. Lake County Sheriff Brian Martin was among those attending the ceremony.
State, federal and local agencies that have taken part in the response and recovery efforts were honored, including: the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services, The California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, the California Highway Patrol, the California Department of Transportation, Federal Emergency Management Agency and the United States Army Corps of Engineers.
Local officials from Sonoma, Lake and Mendocino counties including sheriffs, police chiefs and fire chiefs who led heroic efforts to save homes and lives were also honored. Local non-profits and relief funds were also recognized for their tireless efforts.
