As Native American Heritage Month draws to a close, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger honored the tribal nations whose fire departments stepped forward to help battle the Eaton and Palisades wildfires earlier this year.

When the fires swept through communities in January, fire crews from 15 tribal nations traveled from across California, Oregon and Arizona to protect lives, homes and natural resources during an unprecedented and dangerous chapter in the region’s history.

Representatives from the Barona Band of Mission Indians, the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation and the Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation joined Supervisor Barger in person to take part in the recognition ceremony. It was preceded by Fernandeño Tataviam Band of Mission Indians Vice President Mark Villasenor performing a short welcome song. 

Supervisor Barger presented commemorative scrolls to the tribal leaders and fire officials as symbols of appreciation and as commitments to continued partnership.

Los Angeles County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone also spoke, reflecting on the magnitude of the firefight. 

“It is my honor to recognize the service and courage of the firefighters from these tribal nations,” Chief Marrone said. “I extend my deepest gratitude to their governments for supporting us as we battled these unprecedented wildfires. Never in my 39 years of service have I seen fire behavior like what we experienced. As we move forward, we will continue learning and adapting, including incorporating the fire management practices long used by Native American tribes to promote resilience across our landscapes. On behalf of the Los Angeles County Fire Department, thank you for standing shoulder to shoulder with us to save lives and protect our communities.”