Here I sit looking at the bright red flames licking at our mountain top, knowing that the fire is under control and praying that the wind will lay low and allow the Valley a peaceful sleep. I am reminded of the many men and women, standing guard, protecting our Valley, our families, our properties…
When we run for safety and watch from a distance, Fire Fighters come in and save the day. Risking their lives for people they don’t know. Courageously they approach her with caution, they approach her with respect – they understand her power, her ability to run away long into the night and take flight on the gust of the South Easter.
They, our heroes, our Fire Fighters. Tonight I dedicate this blog to the many women and men on the slopes of our Fish Hoek Valley mountain side. Our Guardians of Fire. Thank you for your courage and commitment!
I watched from a far this afternoon as you flew the helicopters back and forth, working hard to bring this voracious fire under control. I watched as brave men and women stood on the mountain slopes, hose in hand, protecting the fire belt and the properties below. I watched in admiration, knowing that some of you may also have responded to the Signal Hill fire last night!
Following various conversations on social media, I want you to know that the residents appreciate all that you do!
This evening my son wanted to sleep in the lounge under his Christmas Tree, but he could see the mountain, marked by red flames. He was afraid that the fire may spread (into our lounge!)…even though we are on the other side of Main Road!
Kissing him good night, I reassured him that we are safe, that he is safe, thanks to your selfless act of bravery!
Thank you Fish Hoek and greater Cape Town Fire Fighters and VOLUNTEERS! We appreciate you!
#brave #localheroes #inspiring #thankyou
Thank you for that message. Means so much when you come off the line exhausted and hungry and those words lift the spirit to no end. From one of the VWS volunters on the line yesterday.
Know that we appreciate all that you and the many others do! Never forget this, please.
Thank you so much for those very kind words. Although I was not able to respond many of my friends from the Volunteer Wildfire Services did. It is this kind of thank you that keeps us going long into the night. If you, or any of your friends would like to thank us in person, come to our open day at our Newlands base on 29 November 2014. We hope to see you there
You all are our everyday heroes!