Posted by Jim Barnes (75.62.109.75) on July 03, 2010 at 19:25:30:
The CDF/CALFIRE family has lost one of its finest. Fire Captain Russ Gorden was a friend and a champion for all of us that served in CALFIRE’s air program.
As an Air Attack Officer he was one of the greats. His calm voice coming over the radio instilled a sense of calm and confidence that greatly contributed to the safety and effectiveness of any fire fighting operation.
After years of putting your life in the hands of an Officer like Russ and feeling complete trust in him you develop a great affection and great respect. It is a feeling I expect is rarely found in human endeavors outside the military in time of war.
Always a champion for the air program and the pilots that flew in it Russ was a fearless advocate. He never flinched when expressing his concerns to any ranking Officer on any occasion at any time.
Many pilots considered Russ a valued friend. Now that he is gone it is like loosing a greatly loved family member.
I am very grateful that I knew and worked for Captain Russ Gorden I am greatly honored to be able to call him my friend. I am now greatly saddened by his passing.
Love and Respect to Capt. Russ Gorden, his wonderful wife Melanie, his family and friends.
Jim Barnes