2024 WCSO Annual Report - Report - Page 19
2024 WCSO Annual Report | 17
FOUR DAYS OF AROUND-THE-CLOCK CARE
A COMMUNITY’S GRATITUDE
Beyond the rescue efforts, Posse members remained
The response to the Lee Falls Fire demonstrated
committed to caring for the well-being of the
teamwork across WCSO, with deputies, emergency
evacuated animals. Over the next four days, they
personnel, and volunteers working side by side to assist
provided food, water, medical attention, and comfort
the Cherry Grove community. WCSO Posse’s heroic
to nearly 90 displaced animals, working in shifts around
actions earned widespread recognition, culminating in
the clock. They also coordinated with owners and
their Oregon State Sheriffs’ Association Distinguished
emergency officials to manage logistics, maintain order
Action Award—an honor given to those who go above
at the fairgrounds, and eventually reunite animals with
and beyond to serve their community.
their families.
In moments of crisis, WCSO stands ready to as
Posse members contributed
over 260 volunteer hours to
the effort—balancing physical
exhaustion, emotional stress,
and the unpredictability of a
wildfire emergency.
law enforcement professionals and as neighbors,
protectors, and first responders in every sense. The
Lee Falls Fire was a test of resilience, and thanks to
the unwavering efforts of our team, both people and
animals made it through safely.
To learn more about the WCSO Posse and how
they serve Washington County, visit: https://www.
washingtoncountyor.gov/sheriff/professionalstandards/get-involved#posse
