April 20, 2017
BROOKS, CA (April 20, 2017) – The Yocha Dehe Tribal Council, tribal citizens, and community members and leaders joined today for the eighth annual Awards Luncheon to pay tribute to the firefighters of the Yocha Dehe Fire Department (YDFD).
Yocha Dehe Tribal Secretary and Fire Commission Chairman James Kinter welcomed attendees to the Fire Station in Brooks and thanked firefighters saying, “This event is for you, to honor your commitment and dedication to this department. We commend all of you for making our communities safer and better places to live.” Reflecting on the teamwork essential for protecting public safety, the Secretary also paid tribute to the many fire departments with which YDFD works on an ongoing basis.
“We must give a special thanks to our automatic aid and mutual aid partners for their dedication and teamwork. Without these partnerships, YDFD would not be where it is today.” Today’s luncheon featured the presentation of YDFD’s annual awards, which are determined by a vote of YDFD firefighters.
Fire Chief Gary Fredericksen presented this year’s Chuck Garton Leadership Award to Captain Scott Stimson. Firefighter/EMT Andrew Brooks was named Firefighter of the Year. Retiring Esparto Fire Chief Barry Burns was also recognized by the Yocha Dehe Tribal Council for his more than 45 years of dedication and commitment to the Capay Valley community.