Local firefighters tested by flames

Local fire departments responded directly into the heart of the firestorm on Sunday, July 28, when the Cache Mountain fire hit the northwest corner of Black Butte Ranch.

Two houses were destroyed, but firefighters saved others that could easily have met the same fate. Engines were on patrol in that sector because firefighters feared the blaze would spot in the direction of the Ranch.

Initial responders for Black Butte Ranch were: Captain Tim Demers; Lt. Justin Waalkes; Brandon Ladd; Ryan Ahrendt; Sean Hurtley; Cory Farrington; Matt Marshall; Dan Hudson; Sam McCullough; Travis Hinkle.

Richard Cearns and Brian Adams arrived shortly after the battle began.

Chief Sherrell also offered high praise for the Sisters-Camp Sherman firefighters who helped stave off the flames.

"If they hadn't come in on our south flank, we'd have been in deep trouble," said Chief Ed Sherrell.

Sisters-Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District firefighters on the scene were: Mike Ryan; Vicky Ryan; Chris Perry; Shawn Hartford; Dwight English; Jeff Liming; Tiffany Stevens; Thornton Brown; Jeff May; Robert McLean; Amber Wolf; Mike Sims.

Cloverdale firefighters also responded to the scene.

They were: Chief Chuck Cable; Scott Hampton; Gary Bickford; Deanne Dement.