Fire Fighters Recognized at Great Smoky Mountain Lumberjack Feud
The Lumberjack Feud recognized local firefighters Friday night in a special show held in their honor. The firefighters took part in battling the massive blaze on Wear's Valley Road two weeks ago.
Firefighters and first responders who took part in battling a massive blaze that swept across more than 400 acres of land last week were recognized at the Great Smoky Mountain Lumberjack Feud Friday night for their efforts.
“We wanted to show our support and appreciation for what they did,” said Rob Scheer, president and CEO of the GSMLF. “How can you not recognize a hero? They rose to the challenge at great personal risk to themselves and, after what they went through, we felt they needed a night out to kick back and relax.”
The fire broke out on March 16 and firefighters were brought in from neighboring counties, including Jefferson County, and across the state as well as from bordering states. More than 300 firefighters worked in 12 hour shifts to battle the inferno for more than two days. When the fire was finally extinguished more than 80 homes had been damaged or destroyed.
Dozens of fire fighters enjoyed a night of fun, great food and entertainment compliments of the Lumberjack Feud. When the firefighters and first responders were asked to stand to be recognized by the show’s emcee, ranger Danny Black, the were given a tumultuous applause by a grateful community.
The show is a competition between two families of lumberjacks vying for logging rights in the Great Smoky Mountains. The two families are comprised of actual ironjacks that have competed on the national circuit.
Several firefighters attending the show found themselves drawn into the competition when volunteers from the audience were needed for various competitions. In one such competition Paul Blake of the Seymour Volunteer Fire Department was selected to square off in a pole climbing contest. Blake was fitted with spiked boots and other gear needed for climbing before he climbed more than 30 feet up the pole narrowly edging out his competitor.
“This was awesome,” said Blake. “It’s been a lot of fun. This shows community support.”
