Statement By FEMA Director Joe M. Allbaugh On Big Elk Wildfire Fatalities
Release Date: July 19, 2002
Release Number: HQ-02-116
Washington, D.C. -- "We were saddened to learn about the deaths Thursday of an air tanker crew, whose firefighting plane went down at the Big Elk fire near Estes Park, Colorado."
"These pilots, like their ground counterparts, are extraordinary firefighters who battle dangerous conditions every day with one goal in mind - to save lives and property. They do it because they love to fly, and they want to make a difference, even though it means putting themselves at risk."
"Our FEMA family extends its sympathies to the pilots' families, friends and colleagues during this difficult time."
Last Modified: Friday, 25-Jul-2003 14:46:06