Press Releases 2008
United States Thanks Greece for Assisting in Fighting California Wildfires
August 12, 2008
Responding to a request for assistance from the U.S. Government, a team of Greek firefighters went to California July 15 through August 9 to work with their American counterparts in fighting the recent wildfires in that state. The request came after a year of mutual cooperation on wildfire assistance between Greece and the U.S., and was part of the National Response Framework’s Emergency Support Function. On August 8, the firefighters also met with California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger who expressed his deep appreciation for the assistance provided by Greece.
Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice sent a letter to Foreign Minister Dora Bakoyannis thanking her for Greece’s assistance. “Greece’s immediate response to our call for help exemplifies our countries’ long history of standing together in times of need… Please convey my gratitude to the firefighters and their families for their courage and selflessness and to the Greek people and government for their steadfast support and generosity,” said Secretary Rice in her letter.