ODF crew boss receives coveted challenge coin from visiting Guard Adjutant General

ODF Highlight: Last week, The Adjutant General (TAG) visited the four Oregon National Guard hand crews deployed to assist in wildfire suppression to recognize outstanding performers, observe firefighting operations, and underscore the Guard’s crucial role in protecting Oregon’s communities during this challenging wildfire season. While there, the service members voted on who would be the recipient of a challenge coin, an honor normally given to a fellow service member. In this rare instance however, ORNG members voted to have Dana Turner, ODF crew boss for one of the Oregon National Guard hand crews, be the recipient of the coin in recognition of her support, effort and dedication to her crew and Oregon.  It is rare for the challenge coin recipient to be a civilian, and Turner is honored to have received it.

Weather: Low pressure over the Pacific Northwest maintains the threat for thunderstorms and gusty Cascade gap winds through Tuesday. Main thunderstorm concern for new ignitions will be for Monday night through Tuesday across northeast Oregon as faster moving storms potentially produce abundant lightning. Along the Canadian border, some storms may also produce significant lightning and/or strong outflow wind. However, heavy rain there should mitigate most ignition potential. Westerly general wind increases, especially through the Cascade gaps and across southeast Oregon. Wednesday brings a break in convection and winds. Thursday through the weekend brings another low-pressure trough with west side rain along with eastside thunderstorm potential and periods of gusty general wind.

Prevention: August is historically known for higher fire danger. Help relieve the strain on our firefighters by practicing wildfire prevention. Know the fire danger level of the areas where you live, work and play, and follow all local restrictions on burning, equipment use, campfires and other activities that can start wildfires. Find danger levels and restrictions across the state here.