Federal firefighter recognized for rescue effort

A Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest firefighter and EMT was recognized by Nevada Gov. Jim Gibbonsfor his rescue efforts after an air-tanker crash during the 2009 Hoyt Fire in central Nevada.

Gibbons presented Isaac Walden, along with other members of the rescue crew, with statements of recognition for meritorious service and expressed appreciation to each for what he described as difficult but critically important work. During his statement, Gibbons said that firefighting personnel are trained to deal with the worst situations and should be recognized for their efforts.

"Isaac exhibited great heroism under very challenging conditions," said Jeanne Higgins, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Supervisor. "He truly displayed exceptional courage, and the Humboldt-Toiyabe is extremely proud of his well-deserved recognition," said Higgins.

In August 2009, Forest Service personnel, along with the Nevada Division of Forestry, were participating in wildfire suppression efforts on the Hoyt Fire near Dixie Valley, northeast of Fallon.

After being notified that a single-engine air tanker had crashed while dropping fire retardant in mountainous terrain, NDF Helicopter Pilot Nick Lopes and Helicopter Manager Lee Stewart were joined by medics and personnel to assist with rescue efforts.

Walden, from the Forest Service Black Mountain Hotshot Crew, along with Division of Forestry EMT Dave Corbit and Helicopter Crewmember Mark Blonquist, were transferred by helicopter to the crash site where Bureau of Land Management personnel were attending to the critically injured pilot.

The tanker pilot was loaded on the helicopter for transport to rendezvous with Care Flight. Emergency rescue efforts continued during the 45-minute flight, but the critically injured pilot, was declared dead upon arrival at the Lovelock Airport.