Puerto Vallarta, Mexico – The spirit of gratitude and solidarity shone brightly as Professor Luis Alberto Michel Rodríguez, the mayor of Puerto Vallarta, expressed his appreciation upon receiving a generous donation from the Pend Oreille County Fire Department in Washington state, through the American Legion.
The donation includes a vehicle and essential firefighting equipment, which will strengthen the capabilities of the Municipal Directorate of Civil Protection and Firefighters.
During a heartwarming ceremony held at the central base of the Civil Protection and Firefighters unit, Mayor Michel remarked, “Gratitude is a gift that multiplies when you share it with others. This moment fills our community with great joy, and we are incredibly thankful for the unwavering support provided by the American Legion. They have always been there for us, eager to contribute to the betterment of our city.”
The donated truck, a Ford F-Super Duty with four-wheel drive, is specifically designed for urban rescue and rapid fire response. It represents more than just a firefighting vehicle; it symbolizes the collaborative and brotherly relationship between Puerto Vallarta and the United States. “Puerto Vallarta considers the American Legion as part of our extended family. We assure you that this vehicle will be put to excellent use by our institution, safeguarding the wellbeing of Vallarta families,” added Profe Michel.
Gerardo Alonzo Castillón Andrade, the director of Civil Protection and Firefighters, explained the importance of the donated equipment for tackling structural fires. The package includes boots, helmets, gloves, and autonomous breathing apparatus, all essential in dealing with hazardous conditions where the risk of inhaling dangerous substances exists.
The Vallarta mayor presented Dennis Rike, the 1st Vice-Commander of American Legion Post 12 Puerto Vallarta-Bahía de Banderas, with a special recognition for his involvement in facilitating the donation process. “I am thrilled to be here today. Fifty years ago, I was a firefighter, and my heart still lies with these noble organizations. It was phenomenal to be a part of the process that brought this vehicle and equipment to Puerto Vallarta,” Mr. Rike said.
The donation process, dubbed ‘Operation Southern Blaze,’ was led by Mark Ford, the director of operations of Convergence, a non-profit organization that supports American veterans. The involvement of Councilors Pablo Ruperto Gómez Andrade and Diego Franco Jiménez, along with other municipal officials and personnel from Civil Protection and Firefighters, made the ceremony all the more meaningful.
With the addition of this invaluable contribution, Puerto Vallarta’s firefighting and rescue capabilities receive a significant boost, strengthening the city’s ability to protect its residents and visitors in times of need. The spirit of collaboration and international camaraderie embodied in this donation further solidifies the enduring bond between Vallarta and the American Legion.