The aftermath of the Bridge Fire left a trail of destruction in the Wrightwood community. Amidst the devastation, a group of dedicated volunteers from Fort Irwin stepped up to lend a helping hand.
Led by Army Lieutenant Robert Deaver, these selfless individuals spent countless hours cleaning up debris, rebuilding structures, and providing support to those affected by the disaster.
As Lt. Deaver shared, "We cleaned almost all of the debris from the Kupka property, which was sadly caught in the fire, helping to recover any items that possibly survived. We also rebuilt a retaining wall at Wrightwood Place to help prevent mudslides. And we've been making regular visits to the Veterans Memorial to keep it clean."
The volunteers' efforts extended far beyond physical labor. Their presence in the community has brought a sense of hope and solidarity.
“A connection has been built between Fort Irwin and Wrightwood," said Lt. Deaver. "These volunteers are able to lend a helping hand, and the locals make them feel part of the community, which increases their morale and gives them an area they can look forward to visiting in their free time.”
The response from the Wrightwood community has been overwhelming. Residents have expressed their gratitude for the volunteers' dedication and hard work. Their selfless acts of kindness have not only helped to restore the community but have also strengthened the bond between Fort Irwin and Wrightwood.
We are truly grateful for the unwavering support of all the volunteers. Their efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of those affected by the Bridge Fire.