According to ODF, firefighters from North Carolina helped fight Oregon wildfires in 2013, 2014, and 2015—and Oregonians were happy to return the favor.
“We were tapped out locally and even throughout the region. We put out the call for help, and North Carolina answered. We were grateful for them,” said forester Dave Larson.
During a recent meeting, Oregon and North Carolina firefighters showed their appreciation for one another by sharing their patches
Southwest Oregon District Protection Supervisor Bill Smith said, “Patches are sacred in a way, so when you are accepted into an organization you get to fly those colors and represent an exclusive membership. So, when the chance comes to exchange a patch like we did there, it’s a meaningful tradition that represents a sacred brotherhood. You don’t give them away without warrant.”
Video shared by ODF on Facebook demonstrated just how much comradery and appreciation the firefighters have for one another.
Without extra patches on hand, ODF Incident Commander Link Smith had cut his own patch from his sleeve and gave it to the incident commander from the North Carolina Forest Service.
An ODF spokesperson wrote, “It’s a firefighting culture that demonstrates honor and respect, no matter which state you call home. “
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