Assistant Chief

Department of Forestry and Fire Protection

9/1/1997

Special Act Award (Gold)

On August 1, 1997, CDF Assistant Chief Bill Clayton and Battalion Chief Jack Story performed extraordinary acts of heroism at great risk to their personal safety and lives. Chiefs Clayton and Story responded to the Lake Wohlford Fire and drove through a fire storm to rescue the Melvin family from certain peril. At approximately 1:00 p.m. on August 1, 1997, Chief Clayton, Incident Commander (I.C.) for his fire, along with Chief Story responded to the arson fire at Lake Wohlford. 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, Cindy Poe, 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. I.C. Clayton ordered Chief Story to lead a rescue attempt to save the Melvin family. Civilian Cindy Poe, who knew the location of the Melvin family, was placed in Chief Story’s vehicle. I.C. Clayton, Chief Story, Cindy Poe, Captain Clay Howe (BLM), Engine 3381 and crew members Fire Captain Mike Newell, Firefighter Andy McDaniel and Firefighter Lynne Lenell headed into the fire storm. Burning and arcing power lines feel and struck the side of I.C. Clayton’s sedan. Flames and smoke conditions obscured the road bringing visibility to zero, which presented an immediate life-threating situation. Direct are 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. They were placed in I.C. Clayton’s vehicle and driving back through a second wall of fire to safety. Despite perilous conditions and the possibility of being swept into the fire store, the actions of Chief Bill Clayton and Chief Jack Story stand as testimony to the quality and courage of the everyday CDF firefighter.