08/11/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/11/2026 10:06
WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT), John Curtis (R-UT), Michael Bennet (D-CO), and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) introduced a bipartisan resolution honoring the bravery and sacrifice of several firefighters whose lives were lost while combatting recent wildfires on the Utah-Colorado border.
"We honor and mourn the courageous firefighters who gave their lives to protect the people we love and the frontier we call home," said Senator Mike Lee. "These brave Americans from across the country dropped into the eye of the storm via helicopter to fight the wildfires ripping through Utah's eastern border. Their sacrifice will always be remembered in the lands they protected. Utah's prayers are with the families grieving these heroes."
"Behind every wildfire are brave men and women who embody the very best of public service: courage, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to protecting our communities, often at great personal risk," said Senator John Curtis. "Since this resolution was introduced, it was confirmed that Utah has lost two more heroic individuals in a helicopter crash while fighting the Widemouth 2 Fire. My heart is with the families, friends, and fellow firefighters mourning the devastating loss of these brave Americans."
"Our hearts are with the families, loved ones, and fellow firefighters grieving the loss of the five wildland firefighters who gave their lives protecting others," said Senator Michael Bennet. "Today's resolution honors the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who risk their lives to keep their fellow Americans safe during wildfires."
"The bravery and heroism of these firefighters deserve our deepest gratitude," said Senator John Hickenlooper. "Our hearts are with the families and friends of these heroic men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting lives, homes, and the landscapes we all cherish."
Read the full resolution text here.