14th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest The American Experience
Guardians of the Valley

The fire department helicopter made several water drops when a fire broke out in the Hills of Bear Valley Springs. The area has steep, rocky terrain in between properties so ground crews worked where they could and air support took on the rest. It represents how resilient we can be when we work together for the greater good. Tragedy and hardship are times that will either tear people apart, or bring them together stronger than they were before. Every community has its problems, but Bear Valley has grown together around their heroes in uniform after multiple fires.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 06.2016
Date Uploaded: 08.2016
Photo Location: Tehachapi, California, United States of America
Camera: Canon EOS REBEL T1i
Copyright: © Jessica Martin