Salud Ortiz Carbajal: “Last December, the Thomas fire raged through Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, eventually becoming the largest…”

“Last December, the Thomas fire raged through Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, eventually becoming the largest wildfire in California's history. Our heroic firefighters left their families behind during the holiday season to fight tirelessly on the front lines, saving homes, businesses, and lives. A few short weeks later, our first responders were called back into action when heavy rains brought debris flows that tragically claimed the lives of 23 people in Montecito. As residents were evacuating, these brave firefighters ran towards the disaster without a second thought, pulling people out of the mud and debris for days afterward. I would like to thank all our first responders who so bravely answered the call of duty in these difficult conditions. Mr. Speaker, with us here today are firefighters from IAFF Local 2046, CAL FIRE Local 2881, and the Ventura County Professional Firefighters Association, and the California Professional Firefighters. I thank them all for their unparalleled level of service to keep our loved ones on the central coast safe. Thank you for your service. ____________________”