Paula Peterson, SouthTahoeNow.com
The Caldor Fire has made an impact in all neighborhoods and communities from Grizzly Flats to South Lake Tahoe during the one month since it started, August 14 in El Dorado County.
As fire crews make their way off the mountain after a long shift, South Lake Tahoe residents are greeting them with cheers and signs of appreciation for saving the community from flames that came very close to destroying homes.
One such group are those who live at the top of High Meadows, Sierra House and Marshall Trails.
Organized by Johnny Gomez, neighbors came together with water, gatorade, cookies, candy and other snacks to hand out to all of the men and women coming off the mountain after a long, hot 12-hour shift.
“We thanked the heroes from all divisions and from all of the state that literally saved our neighborhood,” said Gomez.
Residents of the neighborhood are part of a private Facebook group “Upper Montgomery Estate” that was created to keep everyone apprised of news and alerts. It was very active during the Caldor Fire and an easy way to spread the word about Thursday’s celebration with firefighters.
Another area where firefighters are being thanked after a shift is on Ski Run Boulevard where locals and signs greet those coming down the hill.
In the first photo is a Carson City Fire Department engine which made up part of Strike Team 4232C. The strike team is made up of firefighters from East Fork Fire, Central Lyon Co, and Fallen Leaf Lake. The firefighters have now returned home.
As of Sunday morning, the fire was 218,950 acres and 65 contained, according to Cal Fire. The fire has destroyed 1,003 residential and commercial structures, damaged 81 structures and has injured five firefighters. The cause is under investigation.
