COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – The Coeur d’Alene City Council meeting began with a heartfelt tribute to the firefighters lost on June 29th’s, Canfield Mountain ambush. Although the incident wasn’t on the official agenda, the impact was undeniable as city leaders, first responders and community members paused to honor the lives lost.
Inside the city council chambers, emotions ran high. Community members shared how the losses on Canfield Mountain has deeply affected them.
Council member, Dan Gookin expressed, “These guys spend a third of their lives working together and living together and training together and all that stuff. I just can’t fathom that. I mean, it affected me so I can’t fathom how it affected them.”
Despite the grief, the community’s support has been evident. Council member, Christie Wood emphasized that the support will help everyone, especially North Idaho’s firefighters, to move forward.
Wood noted first responders as brave, “That strength is going to carry them through but they draw a lot of it from this community.”
Council member, Kiki Miller added to feeling empowered by the community’s support. She referred to Tuesday’s procession, saying, “During the homecoming, what I saw was the best of the best of our community.Thousands and thousands of people lined the street,” Miller said.
Council member, Kenny Gabriel also noted firefighters’ appreciation for the overwhelming support from the community, ranging from food donations to prayers.
Gabriel stated, “Lining the streets, bringing so much stuff to the fire stations that they really don’t know what to do with anymore, and the thoughts and prayers with the families.”
The city council emphasized that unity and faith will continue to be the foundation of Coeur d’Alene. A prayer was shared during the meeting by Pastor David Bruyette.
“Father. I just pray for strength and continued unity. Thank you for a community that is so supportive of our first responders and military, of our schools and education and religious rights and freedoms.”
City leaders committed to standing with first responders and the public as Coeur d’Alene moves forward together.
