An Army veteran who served in Afghanistan used his battlefield experience to save his family’s home from the catastrophic wildfires ravaging Los Angeles. Jim Cragg, Commander of the American Legion, shared with NBC News how he took proactive steps to protect his property after a previous brush fire nearly engulfed his home.
To prepare for future fires, Cragg stocked up on basic firefighting tools—yard sprinklers and hoses. When the Palisades fire erupted and the area was ordered to evacuate, he sprang into action, setting up the sprinklers around his yard and laying hoses on the roof. After ensuring his home was as protected as possible, Cragg and his family evacuated to safety.
He recalled his difficult escape, describing how he was trapped by the flames while driving down Sunset Boulevard, likening the experience to the challenges he faced in Afghanistan.
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The Cragg family’s home sits at the base of a hill, surrounded by neighbors both above and below them. When Cragg returned to check on his property after the fire subsided, he found that the flames had come dangerously close to his home but had been held off by the sprinklers. Sadly, many of his neighbors were not as fortunate.
“All my neighbors up across the top, their houses are gone,” Cragg said, choking up as he spoke about the loss.
Once the fire was under control and the water supply was cut off, Cragg returned to his home with a Marine friend to further protect his property and assist others in the area. They used water from a nearby pool to douse the roof and sides of Cragg’s home and any others nearby that still needed help.
“I just had to do it. I just had to be up there,” Cragg said, reflecting on his determination.
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The Palisades fire has destroyed over 20,000 acres since its onset, leveling thousands of homes and buildings in its path. The landscape has been left in ruins, and the fire remains only 11% contained as strong winds once again pick up in the Los Angeles area.
“[First responders] are doing everything they can, but it’s a warzone,” Cragg said, emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Source – NYP
