As the flames of the Telegraph Fire raced toward the Mt. Bullion Ridge residence of John and Wendy Vittands there was one primary concern for Wendy: how will she evacuate their horses?  She knew a friend with a trailer was trying to reach her but she also realized there was a distinct possibility the road was now closed at the base of the mountain.  Wendy realized she must act and decided to try to lead the 4 animals from the back of a pickup truck.  No sooner had she begun than a firefighter pulled the lead ropes from her hands and exclaimed to her to “get out now!”  She turned and saw a rapidly approaching wall of flames and knew she must leave her animals.  She felt she had seen them for the last time. 

 

Unknown to Wendy local farrier Gary Suggs and horse trainer Jon Currie had found a back road onto the property.  Gary drove to the Vittand residence and Jon rode his horse, a 45 minute ride from his home, leading another of Wendy’s horses which had been at his facility in training, to the top of the ridge.  Also following along was a donkey belonging to one of Jon’s neighbor’s that also had been left behind when the fire so rapidly advanced on the area.  Jon then proceeded to lead the 5 nervous horses and the donkey down the mountain, some tied, some following behind.   Jon safely took the animals to the highway, passing fire engines and burning vegetation on his way.   It wasn’t until the following day that Wendy realized her beloved horses were safe at the fairgrounds, due to this cowboy’s unselfish deed.  While he was saving her 5 animals and the donkey his own residence burned to the ground and he was left with only the clothes he was wearing and his horse and saddle. 

 

In recognition of this kindness and to help Jon re-establish his leatherwork and training business, an account has been established at Yosemite Bank, PO Box 1267, Mariposa, CA  95338 for anyone wishing to help Mr. Currie in this time of need.  The account number is 307005652.  A big thanks to both Jon and Gary.

Cindy Casey