Schicke, who lived in the town of Arnold, had been a basketball player at California State University, Stanislaus, where she received a degree in criminal justice in 2002. This was her first year on the Columbia Helitack Crew, and she was its only female member. CDF battalion chief Jeff Millar described her as a "fast learner" on the crew and told reporters, "She liked the challenge. She always kept up good spirits when we were working long hours, dirty and hot. She kept smiling." CDF employs thousands of career and seasonal personnel. In the history of the agency, 70 CDF firefighters have died in the line of duty; Schicke is the first woman. The fire where Schicke died was a relatively small one in rugged, forested terrain that has been under high fire alert for the past month. Officials planned a rope-rescue attempt to recover Schicke's body as soon as fire conditions would allow. Governor Schwarzenegger issued a statement ordering the state capitol's flags to be flown at half-staff in Shicke's honor. "She bravely risked her life to protect our homes and ensure our safety. In the face of danger, Eva acted with courage and commitment... Maria and I send our deepest sympathies to her loved ones," he said. More information is available on the CDF website at www.fire.ca.gov. Also see an article from the Sacramento Bee CDF Firefighters Local 2881 has established a Memorial Fund to help Eva's family. Checks can be made payable to "CDF Firefighters Eva Schicke Memorial Fund" and addressed to: Merchants National Bank Those wishing to send cards and letters to the family may do so at the following addresses: Schicke Family Schicke Family |
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