Letter: Small River fire thank you

It takes a special breed of men and women who are willing to take on the dauntless task of fire fighting in its most dangerous form, in rugged terrain with no roads in and unpredictable weather patterns…. which way the wind blows and where the lightning strikes next? 

Thirty years ago, I wouldn’t have given this much regard, but I was young and there was no climate change yet. Now, as a senior, I have spent more than half my life here in Dunster, like my neighbours, building my place and my shop. There is much regard now. The memories and the work invested which could be lost in a heartbeat. 

At 77, I feel helpless now, only able to watch the choppers fly over and being glued to the forestry site, wondering what the morning brings, with an unpredictable water source here to save my place. I guess ” it’s all part of the tour.” I can’t complain, I’m not homeless and I have food…. something I had known so many, many yrs ago. 

To the those men and women who have fought to bring the OOC Small River fire to flicker, who spent their days and nights in miserable weather, who kept their focus without thinking about what’s waiting for them when they get back home, whose indomitable spirit and drive make this world a better place to live……the unsung heroes, on behalf of my neighbours and seniors, I want to thank you all, for a job well done. 

Hardly enough……. but the knowing is forever.

Dave Ryckman,

Small River, B.C.