Hometown Heroes

State DCR’s Forest Fire Control Team honored for bravery in ceremony at Breakheart Reservation

  (Editor’s Note: Wellpoint, a health benefits company in Massachusetts, issued the following press release this week.)

Wellpoint, a health benefits company in Massachusetts, proudly recognized the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) Forest Fire Control Team as the newest honorees in its Hometown Heroes program. In partnership with 98.5 The Sports Hub Bruins Radio Network, this initiative celebrates the invaluable contributions of public servants, local first responders, teachers, and military personnel across Massachusetts, shining a spotlight on the everyday acts of courage and kindness that strengthen our communities.

“At Wellpoint, we believe whole health begins with safe, resilient communities—and that starts with the people who show up when it matters most,” said David Morales, general manager of Wellpoint. “The DCR Forest Fire Control Team embodies strength, courage, and a deep sense of purpose. Their actions not only protected our state’s forests and parks, they also contributed to the physical and mental well-being of the communities we serve. We are proud to honor these brave individuals as hometown heroes.”

The DCR Forest Fire Control Team was honored at Breakheart Reservation in Saugus for their heroic service last fall, when Massachusetts experienced a historic fire season with 662 wildfires that burned 4,000 acres in October and November.

“Our firefighters and emergency services are on the front lines of protecting our communities, homes, and state parks, and for this, we are immensely grateful. We appreciate the long hours and sacrifices they have made to ensure public safety,” said EEA Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “Two months ago, we proposed the Mass Ready Act – a historic investment to strengthen, protect, and prepare our communities from extreme weather events like wildfires. A key provision in the bill will better manage our public water supply for drinking water and increase support for rural firefighting. Our goal is to ensure those at the frontlines receive every tool needed when disaster strikes.”

“When an unprecedented number of wildfires broke out across Massachusetts last fall, DCR’s Forest Fire Control Team sprang into action to assist our communities, safeguard our infrastructure and protect our forests,” said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle. “DCR’s firefighters exhibited leadership, courage and resiliency as they worked side by side with our state and local partners to control and suppress the blazes. I want to thank David Morales and the team at Wellpoint and 98.5 the Sports Hub for recognizing this heroic crew and everything they did to not only protect our natural resources, but to protect the well-being and safety of our communities.”

Amid dangerous and demanding conditions, the team—including full-time and seasonal wildland firefighters—worked around the clock to protect lives, homes, and the Commonwealth’s forests and state parks. Their bravery and commitment prevented greater devastation and ensured the safety of residents and visitors.

“We are honored to accept this prestigious recognition. The unprecedented fire season we experienced last fall underscored that wildfires are a growing national challenge, and the Northeast is not immune,” said Dave Celino, DCR Chief Fire Warden. “Addressing this challenge demands the dedication, expertise and commitment of DCR’s specialized wildland firefighters. Their efforts, supported by a strong state and local partnership, are critical to protecting our communities and our forests.”

In addition to recognizing the Forest Fire Control Team’s efforts, the celebration also marked the 81st birthday of Smokey Bear—an enduring symbol of fire prevention and personal responsibility.

“The members of the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Forest Fire Control Team went above and beyond the call of service last fall to battle historically damaging wildfires,” said Senator Brendan Crighton. “We are proud to recognize their selfless and heroic actions in partnership with the Hometown Heroes program.”