Thank you to all responders

On behalf of the Washington State Fire Chiefs and the Snohomish County Fire Chiefs, we would like to offer our admiration, respect and most sincere thanks to all of the responders who have worked so tirelessly in support of the Oso community following the devastating effects of the mudslide of Saturday morning, March 22.

Extraordinary aid from firefighters, paramedics, rescue technicians, emergency managers and volunteers has poured into the Oso area day and night from the moment the landslide occurred and continues to this day. These brave men and women, who are performing support work critical to the Oso community, come from agencies and communities locally, countywide, statewide and from across the country. They are all dedicated to one common cause — giving 100 percent of their time to those so seriously affected by one of most destructive natural disasters our area has ever encountered.

Chief Halverson and I would like to recognize and commend each and every one of the many, many responders for their courage and outstanding resiliency in dealing with the aftermath of Darrington/Oso mudslide. We will be forever grateful to them for their selfless spirit and strength.

Our hearts go out to the many families who were affected by the mudslide. We will forever keep them in our thoughts and prayers.

Thank you.

Murray S. Gordon

Everett Fire Chief

President, Washington State Fire Chiefs

Merlin Halverson

Fire Chief SCFPD No. 5 Sultan

President, Snohomish County Fire Chiefs

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