Dear Editor,

In the wake of the recent snowstorm that tested our community’s resilience, I feel compelled to express my deepest gratitude to all the first responders, community residents, volunteers, agencies and businesses who have tirelessly worked to keep us safe and supported. Their dedication and selflessness deserve recognition and appreciation from every member of our community.

To the brave men and women of the ambulance services, who rush to the scene of emergencies with skill and compassion, thank you for your unwavering commitment to saving lives and providing critical medical care during times of crisis.

To the dedicated Sheriff’s Office personnel, who worked tirelessly to maintain law and order responding and communicating with those in need, risking their own safety to protect our residents and visitors alike, thank you for your unwavering service and sacrifice.

To the diligent Public Works crews, who were out there 24/7 for several days to ensure our infrastructure remained intact and accessible, thank you for your heroic efforts to keep our roads safe and functional, especially with the challenging conditions.

To the resilient hotel staff who opened their doors to provide shelter and comfort to those in need, thank you for your hospitality and kindness during times of uncertainty and stress.

And, to our caring, compassionate residents who have offered support, assistance, and solidarity to their neighbors in need, thank you for exemplifying the true spirit of community and for coming together in times of adversity. It is during times like these that we are reminded of the strength and resilience of our community. Together, we stand united in our gratitude for the first responders and community members who serve as beacons of hope and support in times of need.

To our Fire Departments who were very ready to respond to calls for service regardless of the nature of the call or circumstance, we are eternally grateful.

To the many volunteer agencies that supported our mission to protect life and safety of the public, we owe you heartfelt gratitude. Your unwavering dedication and hard work are truly commendable.

During the height of the snow event, we had multiple other emergencies occurring that included a successful search and rescue operation for a person stranded up Missouri Gulch that took several agencies and several hours to get to. We also had a party suffering a cardiac issue that required first responders and a private contractor to clear the driveway to get to them. Neither of these operations would have been successful without a clear team effort.

We are very blessed to have such a wonderful county full of community residents and employees that we can count on in times of adversity.

Kevin Armstrong

Gilpin County Sheriff