Firefighter I

Department of Forestry and Fire Protection

8/1/1997

Special Act Award (Gold)

On August 1, 1997 at approximately 2:00 p.m. Chief Clayton, Incident Commander (I.C.) assigned Engine 3381 and its crew, along with Chief Story, to respond to an arson fire near Lake Wohlford, Escondido. The CDF crew of Engine 3381, Fire Captain Mike Newel, and Firefighter-I Lynne Lenell and Firefighter-I Andy McDaniel responded to the fire to assist with the rescue of the Melvin family, and performed extraordinary acts of heroism at great risk to their personal safety and lives. The fire spread rapidly through heavy brush and up steep canyons, threatening numerous civilians and their property. The fire destroyed 11 dwellings, 20 – 30 other structures and approximately 30 vehicles. After a quick perusal of the area, it was discovered by I.C. Clayton that several property owners needed to be evacuated immediately. I.C. Clayton was notified by a civilian that the Melvin family was still trapped in the fire area. By this time the fire had developed into a fire storm with flames in excess of 50 feet high. The civilian knew the location of the Melvin family and was placed in Chief Story’s vehicle. I.C. Clayton, Chief Story, the civilian, Captain Clay Howe (BLM), Engine 3381 and crew headed into the fire storm. Burning and arching power lines were falling as they drove through the fire. Flame and smoke conditions obscured the road bringing visibility to zero, which presented an immediate life-threatening situation. Direct air drops were ordered on the three vehicles, but had little effect due to poor visibility and turbulent wind conditions. The rescue team reached the Melvin family just before the fire reached their location. Engine 3381 and crew was left to protect the structure while the Melvin family was placed in I.C. Clayton’s vehicle and driven back through a second wall of fire to safety. Despite perilous conditions and the possibility of being swept into the fire storm, the actions of Fire Firefighter Lynne Lenell stand as testimony to the quality and courage of the everyday CDF firefighter.