We share your gratitude and wish your dad a speedy recovery from such a traumatic experience. As Mr. Longo said, “It is essential for all of us to remember.” I’m sure you and your dad will NEVER forget those courageous souls who made more time possible! A precious gift, to be treasured.

What is essential for all of us to remember is that these exceptional employees, who are the best in our State and the Country come with a price tag that’s worth EVERY penney spent. Let’s store in our minds these type of rescues, EMT and fire calls when we discuss the approval of salary expenses, specialized equipment and the building of Fire Station #6.

Your Dad is someone very special to have kept his wits about him after the fall. Our Sedona Fire Department and DPS rescue teams are among the best in the country and we are very proud of each and every member.

During my career as a professional firefighter i had the honor of witnessing many challenging rescues and acts of bravery, none of them better than this example.

The combined actions of the excellent command structure, the well coordinated communications link, and the technical knowledge and physical conditioning of the firefighters, along with the excellent coordination with the Department of Public Safety helicopter made this a successful rescue.

The next time you read or hear information from the greedy few in the community about how the volunteers could have done this, or how their training costs are too high, remember the story of this call and think of yourself or a loved one lying on the edge of the cliff.

This is why many of us have fought so hard to protect the quality of the Fire District. Join us to support them, not destroy them.

Eileen and Abe Koniarsky
VOC