With Gratitude...

(Photo courtesy of Irfan Khan, Los Angeles Times)

THANKS TO THE FIREFIGHTERS
Getting an early jump on the weekend, so I won't be too attentive to comments posted here, but I didn't want to begin my serious R&R without mentioning, again, the fantastic job that has been done by firefighters from all over the state and country in trying to wrestle the current horrendous southern California fires into submission.

THE BIGGEST, AND GROWING
The last numbers I heard included well over 4,000 firefighters working on our fires and doing a darn good job of it. The big one, the Station fire, is now being described as the largest blaze in Los Angeles County's modern history - 144,000 acres and is still growing.

ROAST ARSONISTS!
Two of the fires near Yucaipa are apparently the result of arson. Fortunately, they were attacked quickly and efficiently and are now under control. Idiots who intentionally start forest fires should receive punishment that suits the crime. I suggest trussing them up, tying them to and spit slow-roasting them in their own juices...

AIR ASSETS AMAZING
The "air force" that has been fighting these fires has been something to watch. The 747 that drops 20,000 gallons of retardant or water is an amazing machine to watch operating. The DC-10 drops a little less and the Martin Mars Flying Boat seems to have barely enough power to stay airborne, but does the job. And, the helicopters are magnificent. The precision with which those brave pilots do their jobs is truly amazing.

THE WINGS COME OFF
I leave you with these two clips for your viewing pleasure. The first is a short one that shows just how dangerous flying into these fire situations can be. It's not from our current fires.




FIREFIGHTER TRIBUTE - LOS ANGELES BURNS
The second is a tribute to firefighters - one of many available for viewing on youtube. This one, however, is pretty darn area-specific. Thanks, again, to all the firefighters who have risked their lives to protect us all.