The On behalf of Southern California Fire Chiefs, San Bernardino County Fire Chief Pat Dennen on Thursday pronounced country music star Garth Brooks an Honorary Firefighter.

Chief Dennen presented Mr. Brooks with a plaque during a press conference held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Thursday, January 24th, stating “You opened your heart to those in need, and for that, I can’t express our gratitude enough. Mr. Brooks, Southern California thanks you, and the fire service throughout the United States thanks you. We officially consider you an honorary firefighter.”

Chief Dennen and Los Angeles County Fire Chief P. Michael Freeman spoke of the devastating fires that roared through Southern California last fall, burning over 518,000 acres and destroying over 3,100 homes. Ten civilians lost their lives and 130 firefighters were injured. They spoke of the estimated half-million homes that firefighters saved.

Mr. Brooks will be playing five concerts in two days at the Staples Center in Los Angeles; Friday, January 25th, at 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. and January 26th at 1 p.m., 5 p.m., and 9 p.m. His goal is to raise $10 million for fire victims and to assist Southern California fire agencies. The Friday concert will be televised on KCBS Channel 2 at 9 p.m. Friday, January 25th. Viewers can call in donations while the concert airs. Mr. Brooks has pledged all proceeds from ticket sales and related activities will go towards the fund. Further information is available at the Staples Center website, www.staplescenter.com.

“I applaud Mr. Brooks for his generosity and efforts in helping the fire victims of Southern California. This benefit concert will help so many fire victims get back on their feet. Mr. Brooks is not only an amazing entertainer, he is genuinely a kind, caring individual,” stated Chief Dennen.

Photos courtesy of Juan O’Campo of Bernstein & Associates.
 

---

Images
(Click to enlarge)