News Release

Washington, DC - Idahoans who played a notable part in the recovery efforts in the hurricanes that swept the Gulf Coast region last year were recognized today by U.S. Interior Secretary Gale Norton in a ceremony in Washington, D.C. The four Idaho men honored were among a total of ten nationwide from the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) division of the Bureau of Land Management. Idaho Senator Mike Crapo met them and congratulated them before the awards ceremony.

"Idahoans have always been leaders in answering the call of those in need," said Crapo. "These four men are another example of that fine leadership. Many people across the state came to the aid of the people in the Gulf Region and their contributions did not go unnoticed by those who received the aid. Our country is always in need of people like these men and I'm pleased that they were able to be honored for their outstanding contributions."

The Idahoans given awards today were Patrick Lorton, Donald Clark, Robbie Swofford and Mike Haydon. All are a part of the NIFC, which is based in Boise, Idaho. The men were nominated and then selected by Secretary Norton for their exceptional work in providing relief, starting with hurricane Katrina. The attached photo is from when the men met with Crapo in his Washington, D.C. office.