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State Rep. Muñoz and Texas House Honor Pharr Fire Department for Heroic Wildfire Deployment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FRIDAY, MAY 2, 2025

Pharr, Texas – The Pharr Fire Department was honored on the floor of the Texas House of Representatives on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 as State Representative Sergio Muñoz, Jr. introduced House Resolution 399, recognizing three of Pharr’s finest for their bravery and service during the devastating wildfires in Southern California earlier this year.

Battalion Chief Sergio Vasquez and Engineers Jesus Gonzalez and Charlie Cavazos were deployed in January 2025 as part of the Alamo Strike Team through the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS). These dedicated firefighters joined a nationwide emergency response to help battle the fast-moving wildfires intensified by historic drought and extreme winds. The California disaster forced nearly 200,000 evacuations and took dozens of lives.

Pharr’s firefighters were the only responders from south of San Antonio to answer the mutual aid call—highlighting the department’s readiness, professionalism, and commitment to serving well beyond city and state borders.

“Today we recognize three exceptional men whose courage reflects the best of Texas,” said Representative Muñoz. “Leaving behind your families, entering dangerous terrain, and working long hours under life-threatening conditions is no small sacrifice,” he continued. “But you did it willingly—not for recognition, but out of duty, out of compassion, and out of a true calling to serve. This House, your city, and your state thank you,” Muñoz stated. 

As part of the recognition, Pharr firefighters stood at the dais in the Texas House Chamber, joined by Pharr Fire Chief Pilar Rodriguez and City Commissioner Bobby Carrillo, as Representative Muñoz honored their heroic efforts. The chamber filled with applause as members rose to their feet in a powerful show of unity and gratitude.

The City of Pharr previously welcomed home Chief Vasquez, Engineer Gonzalez, and Engineer Cavazos with a heartfelt ceremony in January, complete with a police and EMS escort, community supporters, and city leaders thanking them for their service.

“Pharr is proud to be represented by such outstanding public servants,” said Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. “Their courage not only brought aid to those in need but also brought honor to our city and our region.”