Dena Martin

Flashing lights and uniformed first responder for fire, police, sheriff's offices and agencies from across the Touchet Valley filled the arena before Thursday nights demolition derby at the Walla Walla fair. The tribute was organized by Fair Board Director Stan Bly who wanted to make sure EMS personnel received some well-deserved recognition. The point was driven home by the fact that emergency personnel responded to calls to the demo pit, the grandstands, and on the racetrack multiple times during the derby that followed. Above: To close the tribute, a flag was lowered from a ladder truck, into the arms of emergency responders who later presented it to Sheriff John Turner. See story and more photos on Page 7.