We are so grateful

To the Editor:

As a result of the Washington Fire on Aug. 26, which came very close to destroying our home of 63 years, we learned something we want everyone to know. That is how fortunate we are to have Cal Fire and Tuolumne County Fire to fight the fires that would devastate us, given the chance.

These firefighters are a group of well-trained professionals who tackle their job with calm and confidence. We were so impressed not only with their abilities, but with the plan they executed in the face of danger and impending devastation.

Though we face a mandatory evacuation, against orders we chose to stay and do what we could to protect what we have built over a lifetime. It was an easy decision for us, though of course we would have left to save our lives. We did remove a few things that were irreplaceable, but otherwise watched and waited until it was over. That night, a crew of firefighters spent all night in their truck on the road below us to watch for hot spots and flare ups. Their dedication was extremely comforting.

The Tuolumne County Sheriff's Office was also on the scene from the beginning and kept the roads clear of traffic so the fire trucks and other emergency vehicles would be able to get through. No one was able to access the area without proof of residing and, even then, only with deputies' assistance.

For those who lost everything, we wish them success in their recovery efforts, and though it will be a long and tedious and emotional journey, due to the ehlp of all those who worked so long and hard, we did not repeat the Paradise tragedy. To all those who worked so hard to save us, we are forever grateful.

Dick and Audrey Pland

Jamestown