[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 163 (2017), Part 9]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 13369]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE LIFE OF BATTALION CHIEF GARY HELMING

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. SALUD O. CARBAJAL

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 6, 2017

  Mr. CARBAJAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service 
of Los Padres National Forest Santa Lucia Ranger District Battalion 
Chief Gary Helming. Chief Helming lost his life on August 31, 2017 
while returning home from fighting a wildfire in the Sierra National 
Forest in Mariposa County.
  I am deeply saddened to have learned of Chief Helming's death. After 
courageously serving as a firefighter for more than 20 years with the 
United States Forest Service, this is a heavy loss for our community 
and the many lives he touched.
  His valiant work and leadership as an emergency first responder in 
Santa Barbara County is among the finest in the county and he was 
recognized as the Santa Maria Elks Lodge Firefighter of the Year.
  Firefighters, like Gary Helming, are selfless heroes who put their 
lives on the front lines to protect our communities.
  I had the honor of meeting Chief Helming this past July when he 
loaned me his boots and we toured the damage done by the Alamo and 
Whittier fires in the Central Coast. It was a true privilege to see 
firsthand Chief Helming's service and dedication to his community.
  In addition to his service with the U.S. Forest Service, Gary Helming 
was a beloved father, husband and friend. At 47 years old, he is 
survived by his wife, Andrea, and their three children, Riley, Walker, 
and Nalani. His service and sacrifice to his community will not be 
forgotten.

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