Mineral Wells Area News

Reporting By Amy Meyer | Mineral Wells Area News

MINERAL WELLS — Palo Pinto County first responders who helped battle the historic Ross Fire were recognized by U.S. Rep. Roger Williams during an event hosted by the Republican Women of Palo Pinto County and the Mineral Wells Area Chamber of Commerce.

Williams presented Certificates of Special Congressional Recognition to local first responders in appreciation of their service during the wildfire, which burned more than 90,000 acres across Palo Pinto and Jack counties.

The recognition followed remarks Williams made on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives as the Ross Fire continued to burn. His remarks were entered into the Congressional Record.

“I thank the firefighters, the first responders, the Forest Service, and everyone who has traveled from across Texas to help contain this wildfire,” Williams said.

Williams also spoke about the impact of the fire on area families, ranchers and communities, including the loss of livestock, livelihoods and land that had been held by families for generations.

The Ross Fire began Aug. 25 and grew rapidly across Palo Pinto and Jack counties, drawing local, state and federal resources as crews worked for weeks to contain the blaze.

The congressional recognition honored the firefighters and first responders who answered the call during one of the largest wildfires in the area’s history and the collective effort to protect lives, homes and property throughout the emergency.