California Professional Firefighters

When Larkspur fire captains Matt Cobb and Jim Clark saw the horrifying images of suffering coming out of Haiti after the January 12th earthquake, they knew they had to do something. What they didn't know was that, right up the road, San Rafael Captain Paul LeVeque - one of their brother firefighters from Local 1775 - was thinking exactly the same thing.

More than 1,000 uniformed firefighters, family members and dignitaries from throughout California gathered to pay tribute to those who gave their lives to protect the lives and property of Californians.

Since 2002, California Professional Firefighters has honored those whose images capture the essence of what it means to be a first responder. This year, we again pay tribute to those who - often at risk to their own safety - capture the courage and commitment of California's bravest.

Over 120 members from 40 locals gathered in Sacramento to attend the 2009 Daniel A. Terry Legislative Conference. Members heard from some of California's top elected officials and met with legislators to educate them on the issues that affect firefighters and their families.

Over the past 12 months, CPF has been actively working on behalf of its members in a variety of areas. The pictures below are some of the highlights from this busy year.

More than 1,000 uniformed firefighters, family members and dignitaries from throughout California gathered this weekend to pay tribute to those who gave their lives to protect the lives and property of Californians.

When the Turlock Holiday Parade was in danger of being canceled due to lack of sponsorship money, the Turlock Fire Fighters Association Local 2434 stepped in with a significant cash contribution, becoming the primary sponsor for a 25-year community holiday tradition.

California’s firefighters once again answered the call this fall, responding to devastating fires and saving thousands of homes. Jay Leno wanted to say thank you in person. So Leno invited CPF members from throughout the state to fill his audience November 26th, as part of his Thanksgiving Eve episode.

Since 2002, California Professional Firefighters has honored those whose images capture the essence of what it means to be a first responder. This year, we again pay tribute to those who -- often at risk to their own safety -- capture the courage and commitment of California's bravest.