Thank you firefighters!

On Mother's Day 2012, a cabin in Crown King, Arizona caught fire. Thousands of acres of forest and desert were burned in what came to be called the Gladiator Fire. Cabins were lost, several small towns had to be evacuated, and Arizona almost lost the gem ghost town of Crown King.


For two weeks the few hundred people who have come to love the rare jewel of Crown King watched the news, blogs, and podcasts for updates on the fire. Over a thousand firefighters battled against the Gladiator Fire, and after two nerve racking weeks claimed victory over the inferno.

I cannot sing the praises of firefighters enough. They work thirty-six hour shifts digging trenches, clearing brush, chopping down trees and risking their lives for complete strangers. That is truly amazing, and is the epitome of the greatness of the human spirit.

Firefighters, you are genuine heroes, and I cannot say thank you enough. Your bravery, courage, and compassion are extraordinary. You are true leaders, and I cannot express my gratitude enough for everything you do for our communities.

To all of the active and fallen heroes in fire stations across the country, thank you for what you do.