Fire Captain

Department of Forestry and Fire Protection

6/18/1987

Special Act Award (Gold)

On June 18, 1987, at approximately 2:20 p.m., Fire Captains Ken Eller and Mike Velasquez observed smoke half a mile south of the Piedra Forest Fire Station. Upon arrival, they found the trunk portion of a vehicle on fire and a grass fire around the vehicle. They were unable to see the driver due to the fire and smoke. Hearing cries, Fire Captains Eller and Velasquez braved the flames without protective gear and approached the vehicle. While Fire Captain Velasquez worked to free the driver’s trapped leg, Captain Eller covered her face with protective clothing. Within a few minutes they were able to extricate her from the burning vehicle and after moving her to safety, administered basic life support.