In an amazing act of valor, the Los Angeles Fire Department air rescue unit rescued a dog from the raging waters of the Los Angeles river after days of torrential downpours that have caused the evacuations of several local communities.
Captured live on local and national news stations (KTLA Channel 5 in this case), a rescue hero identified as Firefighter St. George, repelled from a helicopter and wrestled the frightened German Sherperd into a harness with which he was airlifted out of the river and onto the roadway. Our hero, Firefighter St. George is currently being treated at LA County USC Medical Center for wounds to his hands suffered in the rescue.
In a further act of compassion, the firefighters then placed the cold, wet and frightened dog into their paramedic truck to be taken to safety.
The Shepherd is currently being housed at:
Seaaca Animal Shelter
9777 Seaaca Street,
Downey, CA 90241
Phone: 562 803-3301
These rescuers are our heroes, folks!!
As reported by Captain Steve Ruda from LA City Fire, these fire fighters came from Fire Station 44 in the Atwater Village area on Cyprus Avenue. The helicopter team came from Air Operations in Van Nuys, CA. The incident Commander was Chief Manning at Division Commander Headquarters.
As one who has New York Fire Department family members, as well as family members who are volunteer fire fighters in several areas of New York State, including one very dedicated volunteer Fire Chief, I’ve spent my lifetime in awe of these great heroes.
As an animal lover, I’m even more in awe today. Thank you guys for a job well done!!
[…] Amazing Animal Rescue in LA River | The LA Progressive […]