As I'm sure you know, there are devastating fires in Australia that have been going on for a few months. These fires have burned more than 7.3 million acres and continue to burn. So far, they have been blamed for 27 human deaths and countless animal and wildlife deaths. It's so sad.
Australia and New Zealand have been graciously sending firefighters to America for more than 15 years to help out when things get out of hand here, and we have sent them firefighters in the past as well. A group of American firefighters arrived at Sydney's International Airport Wednesday, and as they walked into the terminal, they were given a hero's welcome as applause broke out.
Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons of the New South Wales Rural Fire Service caught a video and posted it on his social media accounts with the caption "US fire fighters arrived at Sydney Int Airport this week, on their way to assist with fire fighting in Victoria. Coming through, all gathered gave a spontaneous & lengthy round of applause, reflecting the gratitude & admiration we all have for their generosity. #NSWRFS@NSWRFS"
What a moment! Thoughts and prayers go out to these brave firefighters in hopes of them staying safe.