California Professional Firefighters

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.

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.

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.

Hundreds of uniformed firefighters from throughout California gathered at the State Capitol in Sacramento to pay tribute to California firefighters who paid the ultimate price to keep our state safe.

It was the lull between the storms, as the Paradise Fire blew through dozens of homes near Concow on the morning of July 8. During a break, crews braced for another long night.

 As dusk gathered on the afternoon of July 8, weary CAL FIRE personnel joined up with local firefighters from the Bay Area to dig in for a long siege to protect the town of Paradise.