Guestbook

Condolences and Reflections for
Cannon Fire Air Tanker Crash
Walker, CA
Steve Wass, Gardnerville, NV - Pilot
Craig LaBare, Loomis, CA
Mike Davis, Bakersfield, CA

June 17, 2002

"3 more Heroes gone to Heaven way too soon..."

I ddnt know this person.But if i did they would probably be 1 nice person though.I jst stopped to look at them all and flt like writeing.Well whoever you are(no offince)hope you have a safe place up there in heaven..
Keisha <Shaggygirl89@hotmail.com>
Lonaconing, md USA - Wednesday, January 22, 2003 at 14:42:06 (PST)

I wish to express my belated condolences to the families of these three brave men who dedicated their lives to helping those in need. I too have lost loved ones in death, and can assure you that time replaces greif with fond memories. However I find extreme comfort in the hope of seeing my loved ones again. I'd like to share that comforting hope with you. . The Bible says: “The righteous themselves will possess the earth, and they will reside forever upon it.”— Psalm 37:29. And Jesus Christ himself said: “Do not marvel at this, because the hour is coming in which all those in the memorial tombs will hear his voice and come out.”—John 5:28, 29; Acts 24:15 When God created the first humans, he placed them in a garden Paradise with the hope of living forever. God's purpose hasn't changed. All mankind, even those who have died, will be given that opportunity to live in Paradise. I think the most comforting Bible promise is found at Revelation 21:4 "And he (God) will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be any more. The former things have passed away". I firmly believe that Steve, Craig, and Mike will be given that opportunity to experience life to the fullest in God's coming Paradise. Even though you may not hope in the earthly resurrection at this time, I sincerely hope you examine these scriptures so as to find great comfort as I have. Please e-mail me if you feel the need to learn more about God's loving provision of the resurrection. Again, please accept my deepest sympathy on your loss.
Mike Darling <mwdarling@hotmail.com>
Bouctouche, N.B. Canada - Thursday, January 02, 2003 at 08:54:09 (PST)

My heart goes out to the families of these fine men. I was once proud to call Craig Labare my friend, when years ago we worked together at Kirkwood Ski Resort. His wife Laurie worked there as well, along with my wife Mary Ann. I'll never forget Craig's adventerous, playful spirit and the heroic way that he died. Steve Wass was well know to many, many people here in Gardnerville. Well known and respected, the community doesn't seem the same without him. I remember Steve out at the airport years ago when we were both learning how to fly. It seems impossible that he's made his last flight. It wasn't my privilege to know Michael Davis, except through the stories told of him after he had gone. Three fine men, taken away in an instant, fighting a fire believed to be human-caused. What a damn waste.
Mo Draper <mo.draper@bently.com>
Gardnerville, NV USA - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 22:31:05 (PDT)

To the Family I would like to say that I am so very sorry for your loss. Please remember that the God of all comfort will be with you through this most terrible ordeal. Be reassured that the scriptures say that God himself will wipe out every tear from our eyes and death will be no more as stated in Revelation 21:3,4. I pray for that day to come quickly. Take comfort from the scriptures and each other.
Donna Ludy <ludy_d@hotmail.com>
Cleveland, Oh USA - Thursday, September 19, 2002 at 02:23:38 (PDT)

I belive in destany and it was there time to go,is not always easyto let go but you will always have all the happy moments you both spend together.Keep your head up some day in the future you will be reunited with youe loved one in the heavens.
Brenda Andrade
houston, tx USA - Monday, September 16, 2002 at 11:33:15 (PDT)

Our family's thoughts, prayers and compassion go out to the families and friends of Steve, Craig & Mike. We lost our son in June and can really feel and understand your pain and loss. Know that your love for them and their's for you transends all time and space, and that many are keeping all of you in their prayers.
Ron & Cindy Brauer <ron.brauer@fire.ca.gov>
Sacramento, CA USA - Friday, August 30, 2002 at 10:41:16 (PDT)

Please accept my condolence on the lost of your loves ones. always know that god is with you through all your hard times.
lashay <chrisbrandi2005@yahoo.com>
shelby, nc USA - Wednesday, August 28, 2002 at 07:57:44 (PDT)

May the memories you carry in your hearts help you through your time of loss. Please know that there are many out there in the world sending prayers your way.
A. Rogers
Meeker, CO USA - Tuesday, July 30, 2002 at 17:50:31 (PDT)

I am very sorry for your loss. It must have been a tragedy. I'm sure you will never forget this. Please know that the Bible holds out a hope of resurrection back to life on earth. I know this sounds strange but it is true. You don't have to go to heaven to see your loved ones. They will be resurrected back to life here. If you would like to know more, please email me. And again, I am sorry for your loss.
Kathy Bowers <gbowerssr@msn.com>
Harvey, IL USA - Monday, July 29, 2002 at 06:16:39 (PDT)

Steve was a great inspiration to me. I met him in 1988, Bemidji, MN where he and Butch Bragg were stationed for the summer putting out fires. I was inspired to move to Reno and begin flying airplanes myself. Will miss him and my heart goes out to his family and loved ones.
Kim Coulter <kcoulter@atecsports.com>
Reno, NV USA - Monday, July 22, 2002 at 16:28:50 (PDT)

sorry for the typo..... t-130
julie
powell, USA - Saturday, July 20, 2002 at 10:25:49 (PDT)

God bless T-133. Having moved to Powell from Greybull, we had the chance to know these couragous men, even if for a short time. Heavens turn to have these great souls as they live on and may they watch over their family and friends. Three more great men will be missed. Will remember all the great time at the Hanging Tree where we listened to Steve on the drums years ago.
julie vaught and jeff patterson <whyominj@yahoo.com>
powell, wy USA - Friday, July 19, 2002 at 15:50:38 (PDT)

deepist sympathy to the families of these brave men who paid the ultimate sacrafise may they rest in peace
Anthony Gray <anthony.gray@rfs.nsw.gov.au>
sydney, australia - Friday, July 19, 2002 at 06:00:53 (PDT)

As a child of 14 and never meeting the men, but knowing they died trying to save the great little town that I and so many others live in, makes me forever grateful and happy to know that they sacraficed their lives for us. These men will forever be in place in my heart and will ofrever live on as heroes and great men in our town. I only wish io had gotten to meet the great men before they left us. My sorrows and love go to all of their families. Also thank you to Steve,Craig, and Mike for helping us in the time of fire!
Lindsay Straw <spongebob_all_the_way@hotmail.com>
Coleville, CA USA - Wednesday, July 17, 2002 at 15:25:00 (PDT)

the world has lost three good men fighting to do what they thoght was right. they died in honor and of the fondest rememberence. my heart goes to you all
amie <amie2004@hotmail.com>
USA - Wednesday, July 10, 2002 at 13:18:38 (PDT)

Steve,Craig & Mike touched so many lives. My husband Tony & I will never forget their selfless sacrifice. All 3 of you are true heroes. To the families, our prayers and love go out to you all. Lori LaBare we love!!!
Ariann Griffin <ynotariann@yahoo.com>
Meeteetse, WY USA - Tuesday, July 09, 2002 at 17:29:55 (PDT)

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and friends of Tanker 133.
Tony, Roxi & AJ Martin <martinroxanne@hotmail.com>
West Lafayette, IN USA - Tuesday, June 25, 2002 at 12:06:30 (PDT)

May they always fly high and fly free on their new golden wings. They will be greatly missed by all of us in fire.
Sue <sgethen@aol.com>
Prescott Valley, AZ USA - Monday, June 24, 2002 at 18:14:58 (PDT)

The family of Craig LaBare is grateful for the heartfelt expressions of sympathy expressed by all of you. He was a brave, loving, wonderful son, brother and husband. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
Mary Louise Meredith <pmer2@yahoo.com>
Loomis, CA USA - Sunday, June 23, 2002 at 13:46:47 (PDT)

These boys lost their wings in the line of duty. They now have Angel Wings with God. Please bless them, God!
Bob Pitts <xfyrfuz@juno.com>
San Miguel, CA USA - Sunday, June 23, 2002 at 11:45:22 (PDT)

Our prayers are with the gallant crew of AT 130. I know about the wing problems experienced by the A & B model C-130's. Tese aircraft, while magnificant in their original design model were "the best"; they wren'tsuited for this role! God bless them and keep them safe! You are our hero's! Tanker 130 and it's crew RIP!
Norm Silver <nsilvcon@inreach.com>
Vacaville, CA USA - Sunday, June 23, 2002 at 10:10:15 (PDT)

I met the T-130 crew on July 6, 2001, on the Libby Airtanker Base at Fort Huachucca/AZ. Craig Labare was the first officer together with pilot HF "Buzz" Schaffer and flight engineer Tony Griffin. The crew gave me a lot of informations on their T-130, and it was a great feeling for me to have a seat in the cockpit. Now I heard about the T-130 crash. I am shocked and very sad about that incident and about the death of Craig Labare and his comrades Mike Davies and Steve Wass. I would like to extend my sincere condolences to all the families, friends and co-workers of the crew on T-130. My thoughts are with you. Wolfgang Jendsch, Information Officer (PIO) International Lake Constance Fire Association (BFB) Radolfzell Fire Department, Germany
Wolfgang Jendsch, Information Officer (PIO) <firewolf@t-online.de>
Radolfzell, Germany - Sunday, June 23, 2002 at 03:10:41 (PDT)

Our deepest sympathy goes out to the families and friends of Steve, Craig and Mike.
Gary, Michelle, Keith & Nicole Doney <michellemdoney@msn.com>
Ely, MN USA - Saturday, June 22, 2002 at 00:09:16 (PDT)

We know you brave men will be happy in heaven. Thanks for your sacrifice and helping people you didn't even know.
James C. Wilson <>
Vacaville, Ca USA - Friday, June 21, 2002 at 20:52:39 (PDT)

Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the family and friends of these three brave men! Our thoughts and prayers will be with you all.
Harry and Janet Evans
Greybull, WY USA - Friday, June 21, 2002 at 14:08:14 (PDT)

Our hearts go out to the family and friends of T-130. Steve, Craig and Michael will not be forgotten, and are in our hearts.
California Smokejumpers <alauber@fs.fed.us>
Redding, CA USA - Friday, June 21, 2002 at 11:24:00 (PDT)

We are truley sorry for your loss. My husbands works with Jeff the whole family are wounderfull people. Our prayers are with you everyday.
Georgina & Kenny Whitmire <georginamahaffey@charter.net>
Gardnerville, NV USA - Friday, June 21, 2002 at 07:50:48 (PDT)

My thoughts and prayers are with all the families of the crew of T-130. I will take a few moments on Saturday to pray for the men we lost. God Speed.
Liz
USA - Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 20:03:52 (PDT)

So Sorry to hear of this tradegy, Living in Reno we feel that we are next to you and your loved ones, I hope that all connected with this finds some comfort, they worked in a very worthy job, We could not live in this State without them. Thank you
Sue Davis <rickysued@msn.com >
Reno, Nv USA - Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 19:44:21 (PDT)

Our sincere condolences to the families, friends and co-workers of the crew of T-130. Our sympathies and prayers to you for these brave heros. Having a brother who is a fireman, we know the constant concern and worry that go along with the job. These and all firefighters are in our hearts and prayers constantly.
Carol, George, Trevor & Kealan <geoandcarol@gbis.com>
Reno, NV USA - Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 19:31:19 (PDT)

T-130 was scheduled to be here next week,Im the manager of the Union County Airport in La Grande OR. I came to know Steve and Mike mostly over the years. Just last month Mike was in to visit. As always we had a good visit and we hear at La Grande always looked forward to these guys and all of the tanker pilots coming back every year there like family. I will miss them all and pray for there families. We hear in La Grande wish all the pilots and fire crews God speed in there dangerous endeavors. And pray they be carefull. As for Mike and his family please know he touched our lives here very much ...doug
Doug Yearous <dwyearous@yahoo.com>
La Grande, OR USA - Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 18:40:27 (PDT)

My heart felt sympathy to the three who gave up life (and all of their families) in the pursuit of saving lives and property of others. I looked in dis-belief at the TV footage as the accident appeared before my eyes. I hope the people of the USA trully appreciate the sacrifices made on their behalf. Ged
Ged McKnight <Ged.mcknight@ntlworld.com>
Grantham, UK - Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 15:23:46 (PDT)

My deepest sympothy to the Familes,friends of the Crew of T-130, God speed my fellow Brothers. Clayton Roadhouse. LA County Fire Dept, Air & Wildland Division, Heavy Equipment Unit
Clayton Roadhouse <FireDzerDawg@Aol.com>
Lancaster, Ca USA - Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 10:08:18 (PDT)

My deepest sympathy goes out to the families and loved ones of these fine people. They died in the service and protection of others and in this there is no more honorable or noble sacrifice. God Bless.
Darryl H.
Coleville, CA USA - Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 09:17:26 (PDT)

My Condolences go out to the families of the three crew members who gave the ultimate sacrifice.. Jason Waddell San Luis Obispo County Search & Rescue
Jason Waddell <saremt@charter.net>
San Luis Obispo, CA USA - Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 09:12:56 (PDT)

Deepest sympathies to the loved ones of the 3 firefighters who gave the ultimate price so that others would not have to suffer. My respects, for for all of those firefighters who give so much, are only heightened by the courageous deeds that they do. God bless them all.
Bea Walls <bea.walls@fire.ca.gov>
Sacramento, CA USA - Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 08:50:16 (PDT)

My Wife and I wish to express our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of those brave, selfless firefighters who lost their lives on the Cannon Fire. May you all rest easy in the knowledge that although they are gone, they died so that others would not have to suffer, and only the very finest human beings give so much to others while asking for nothing in return. Our hearts go out to each and every one of you. God bless those Men and all they have done for our safety.... Steven & Dorothy
Steven & Dorothy Caruso-Samra <steven-dorth@prodigy.net>
Virginia Highlands, NV USA - Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 05:50:48 (PDT)

Fly with the Angels, all 3 of you.
A Friend
USA - Thursday, June 20, 2002 at 00:55:27 (PDT)

T-130 spent two weeks at the Cedar City Tanker Base prior to the accident. Craig was kind enough to take my kids on a tour. His wife kept us supplied with ice cream. Steve purchased a motorcycle and put quite a few miles on it. Mike told stories of his time in planes. God be with you til we meed again!
shaun hunt <shaun.hunt@iron.k12.ut.us>
Enoch, UT USA - Wednesday, June 19, 2002 at 19:24:45 (PDT)

Dear Friends, As the sister of Mike Davis, we, his family, deeply appreciate your kind thoughts and expressions of sympathy. We would like to add ours to those already expressed. To Craig and Steve's families, may the God of all Peace be with you today and always. My brother talked of all of the other men on many occasions and loved the work they did together. Thank you all for your kindness...
Julia Davis Roche <pwgal@sbcglobal.net>
Bakersfield, CA USA - Wednesday, June 19, 2002 at 12:31:41 (PDT)

As a wildland Fire Fighter they will be missed I'm saddened to hear about the loss of Steve, Craig, and Mike. Their families and Hawken & Powers will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Curtis Bunch <cwlbunch00123@msn.com>
Salt lake city, UT USA - Wednesday, June 19, 2002 at 11:00:44 (PDT)

To three heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice. To live in the hearts of those we love is not to die. May peace be with you.
Neville Dawson <ogi@xtra.co.nz>
Auckland, New Zealand - Wednesday, June 19, 2002 at 02:52:45 (PDT)

Steve, Mike, and Craig~ My deepest sympathy's go out to your friends and families. Steve, I will never forget how we danced the night away at the Smokehouse during the summer of 2001. You will ALL be greatly missed, and every time I look up into the sky, not only will I see my brother, but I will see you, the horoes.
Rebecca Burbridge <trixy277@aol.com>
Greybull, Wy USA - Wednesday, June 19, 2002 at 01:47:47 (PDT)

Our heartfelt condolences to the victims and their families. You are in our prayers. May you enjoy eternal life forever. Rest in peace, my heroes.
THE S-2 TRACKER MUSEUM <stoof@trisev.com>
Rocklin, CA USA - Wednesday, June 19, 2002 at 00:48:20 (PDT)

Our heart goes out to all lost on T130. Steve we love you and will look up at you every night.... With love, Ron and Will
Will and Ron Lynch <Wilnit@charter.net>
Gardnerville, NV USA - Wednesday, June 19, 2002 at 00:32:40 (PDT)

Our Prayers and Our Deepest Sympathy goes out to the familys of our Friends Steve, Criag, and Mike. We Will miss you very much.
Fawn & Tom Goton <tgarabians@starband.net>
Greybull, WY USA - Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 22:08:15 (PDT)

Our heartfelt prayers and sympathy go out to the family and friends of Steve, Craig and Mike. Thank you for your enduring job done day after day. God Bless all firefighting personnel, their family and friends. Be safe and keep your eye in the night sky for our 3 new shining stars.
Austin Fireguys-Eng.6943 <mrgbackdraft@aol.com>
Austin, NV USA - Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 20:33:31 (PDT)

Our hearts and prayers are with the families and friends of Steve, Mike and Craig. We are so sorry.
Pat Hopf Family <PDHOPF@MSN.COM>
Gilbert, Az. USA - Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 14:40:48 (PDT)

On behalf of all CDF Firefighters throughout this state, all our best wishes, prayers and sympathy to the families for their loss, and the the air tanker community. THANK YOU from those of us on the ground for what you do, every day. Tom President CDF FIREFIGHTERS
Tom Gardner <tom@cdf-firefighters.org>
Sacramento, CA USA - Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 09:24:04 (PDT)

My prayers and sorrow go out to the families of the families and friends of Steve, Craig, and Mike. May they forever fly in your hearts and minds.
Ree McLaughlan <ree.mclaughlan@fire.ca.gov>
CDF Academy, CA USA - Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 08:38:12 (PDT)

Sorry - Gary died in 1995 - guess I got carried away.
Cockrells
USA - Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 08:22:20 (PDT)

We grieve for the families of these brave men. We know how it feels - we lost Gary in 1955.
Wayne & Faith Cockrell
USA - Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 08:17:07 (PDT)

May they always fly high and fly free on their golden wings. My prayers and thoughts are with their familys. Godd bless them all and welcomr them with open arms.
IA AIRCRAFT Dispatcher <sgethen@aol.com>
PHX, AZ USA - Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 07:48:54 (PDT)

Our deepest sympathy to the families of the three men who were very brave in helping others in time of need. you will be in our prayers.
Fred and Patty Marshall <marshallf@tctwest.net>
Greybull, Wy USA - Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 07:39:52 (PDT)

Our sympathy and prayers go out to the familys of the crew of T-133. We share in your loss.
Brainerd Tanker Base <brtbase@brainerd.net>
Brainerd, MN USA - Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 06:19:41 (PDT)

Our deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the crew of T-130. "Stevie, Criag, and Mike, We will miss you!"
Bruce & Susan Harrold <susanch@tctwest.net>
Greybull, WY USA - Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 04:37:42 (PDT)

Our Prayers and Our Sympathy go Out the the Family and Friends of tanker #133. It is a tragedy and our prayer is that while these Hero's may be gone from our presence, may their valiant efforts never be forgotten. Steve & Barbie Nelson
Steve & Barbie Nelson <orwell1984@tctwest.net>
Greybull, WY USA - Tuesday, June 18, 2002 at 03:42:52 (PDT)

My heartfelt condolences to the families of our parished brothers. May they rest in peace.
Desire' Gonzales <dj@gonzales.com>
Los Angeles, CA USA - Monday, June 17, 2002 at 22:39:47 (PDT)

Our deepest sympathy goes out to the families of the pilots and the engineer of Tanker 133. These men made the ultimate sacrafice as they lived their lives on the edge to save the lives and property of others.
Doug and Denny Freier Family <dfreier@tctwest.net>
Greybull, WY USA - Monday, June 17, 2002 at 21:54:24 (PDT)

What a tremendously enormous tragedy. My heart is deeply saddened and I want to express my deepest symapathies to the families, friends, co-workers, and all fire pilots. The Fire Family has lost 3 more of our own. We are all saddened today.
Brian Kornegay <oneputt@pacific.net>
Ukiah, CA USA - Monday, June 17, 2002 at 21:17:37 (PDT)