WASHINGTON, D.C.—Acting Assistant Secretary-Indian Affairs Donald “Del” Laverdure today issued a statement regarding the unfortunate loss of a Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Fort Yuma Agency firefighter on Friday, June 8, 2012.
“Anthony Polk was a BIA fire operations and fuels technician at the Fort Yuma Agency with his final assignment being a wildland fire engine boss. On behalf of the U.S. Department of the Interior and the Office of Indian Affairs, the BIA, and the BIE it is with great sadness we join the nation in mourning the loss of such a brave and courageous man.
I know that he was well regarded by all who knew him and that he had called on the public to honor the loss of a fellow firefighter in 2008. The service and commitment of the men and women who dedicate their lives to protecting Indian Country is a selfless duty embodied by Mr. Polk. Firefighters must endure long hours, difficult conditions and danger. Their actions and self-sacrifice truly represent the values most highly revered by our tribal cultures and traditional leadership of putting one’s self second to the needs of the community.”
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