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The firefighter who died while battling the El Dorado Fire last week was honored by his colleagues today.
39-year-old Charles Morton was a Big Bear Interagency Hotshot squad boss, and an 18-year firefighting veteran. He was killed Thursday while fighting the fire in San Bernardino County.
Morton was honored in a procession that included a U.S. Forest Service honor guard accompanied by the California Highway Patrol.
“Charlie was a well-respected leader who was always there for his squad and his crew at the toughest times,” Vicki Christiansen, U.S. Forest Service chief, said in a statement. “Our hearts go out to Charlie’s loved ones, co-workers, friends and the Big Bear Hotshots. We will keep them in our thoughts and prayers.”
The El Dorado Fire, which was sparked during a gender reveal party earlier this month, has burned more than 22,000 acres -- so far. As of Tuesday morning the fire was 60% contained.
Read the full report on the Los Angeles Times.