Press Releases

 Rep. Paul Gosar Hosts Yarnell Fire Memorial Service
“More than 1,200 attend to honor the fallen”

 U.S. Congressman Paul Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-04) hosted a public memorial yesterday in Prescott, Arizona honoring the 19 firefighters who lost their lives battling the Yarnell Fire. More than 1,200 members of the community attended, with at least 200 listening outside the venue.

Rep. Gosar said of the event, “I would like to thank everyone who showed their support last night by attending the memorial service. Your presence demonstrated the strength and resolve of our community. The words do not exist for me to express my sadness and condolences to the families of the firefighters who gave their lives to protect us.  This is a tragedy we will remember the rest of our lives. These brave men made the ultimate sacrifice.”

“We owe them our everlasting thanks,” Rep. Gosar continued. “Please continue to keep their families in your prayers, as well as those who are still fighting this fire. May God bless our community during this difficult time.”

Speakers at the public memorial included:
Congressman Paul Gosar (AZ-04)
Congressman Matt Salmon (AZ-05)
Congressman Trent Franks (AZ-08)
Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06)
Congresswoman Ann Kirkpatrick (AZ-01)
Arizona Attorney General Tom Horne
Arizona House Representative Andy Tobin
Arizona House Representative Karen Fann
Arizona House Representative Brenda Barton
Arizona House Representative Kelly Townsend
Yavapai County Supervisor Rowle Simmons
Yavapai County Supervisor Chip Davis
Yavapai County Supervisor Craig Brown
Prescott Mayor Marlin Kuykendall
Navajo Nation Speaker Johnny Naize
Dr. Richard Bloom of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University 
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Chancellor Dr. Frank Ayers
Prescott Fire Marshal Don Devendorf
Yarnell Community Church Pastor Paul Jones
Fire Chaplain Pastor Robert Ossler
Mr. James McNaughton (bagpipe rendition of Amazing Grace)

The Yarnell Fire began when lightning struck on Friday and had burned 2,000 acres by Sunday. The residents of Yarnell, a Yavapai County town located in the Fourth Congressional District, were ordered to evacuate. Rep. Gosar’s office will continue to closely monitor the situation and remain in communication with emergency responders. Please do not hesitate to contact his office for assistance.

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