Caon City holds party to thank first responders

The Caon City Chamber of Commerce hosted a celebration in Veterans Park to thank first responders for their help in the Hayden Pass Fire and the community.

The Chamber of Commerce normally hosts an event on Tuesdays with a live band for residents. However this Tuesday , the event was dedicated to first responders. It drew in crowds from local law enforcement departments including Fremont County Sheriff’s Office, Caon City Police and the Caon City Fire Department.

“I think it’s awesome. They are hard working and not much has been done for them,” said Dana Canterbury.

As deputy William Ownbey walked through the crowd, people stopped him, thanked him and shook his hand.

“It’s very appreciative. There are a lot of negative things in society and the press and this stuff keeps us goings. It reminds us there are people out there that a still support us. So it’s a good thing,” said Ownbey.

Ownbey helped with evacuations the first day of the Hayden Pass Fire.

“It was a little bit chaotic with the fire and everything going on. Trying to figure out exactly what was happening with it. The people out there were great as far as being willing to evacuate and help their neighbors out. But a little bit hectic at first,” said Ownbey.

Ownbey said he wanted to help more, but knew he had to step back and let firefighters handle the flames.

Shane Roberts from Caon City Fire Department attended Tuesday ‘s party.

“It’s pretty amazing that the community has that much support for us and that they are willing to come out, the number of people, it’s nice to have support,” said Roberts.

The Hayden Pass Fire was 58 percent contained as of Tuesday morning . Hundreds of first responders from across the state and across the country help.