Artist paints portrait signifying heroism

FALLBROOK — As flames approached the mobile home community of Valley Oaks just a few weeks ago, 10 determined volunteer firefighters were able to save more than half of the homes.

With fires raging all over the state, resources were limited. They had only two fire trucks on the scene with 10 volunteers led by Chief Mike Manchor against the encroaching flames. Seeing that it had already consumed a number of the homes, they found an American flag in one of the burning homes, drew a line of scrimmage and, with hoses at the ready, were determined that the fire was not going to advance past that point.

They fought back the flames and were able to keep the fire from taking any more of the Valley Oaks community. The firefighters saw the American flag as their symbol of victory.

Upon hearing of this from a friend, local artist Richard Stergulz was moved to act.

“I’m not a firefighter and can’t imagine what they went through to save these homes,” Stergulz said. “I wanted to do something that could help this community that has lost so much while giving tribute to all those heroes who face this potential situation each and every fire season.”

The firefighters’ heroism inspired Stergulz to paint a portrait of a fireman showing the determination and courage that each one of them has to have when putting their lives on the line to save others.

Stergulz is creating limited-edition prints of the painting, as well as cards and magnets, with all the net proceeds going to fill the needs of the residents of the Valley Oaks community.

Car window decals will also be sold with the image to help support the De Luz Volunteer Fire Department, which was instrumental in saving not only much of this community but the surrounding area.

Stergulz attended the American Academy of Art in Chicago and has had a successful illustration and fine art career for more than 20 years. For more information on the firefighter art, visit http://www.stergulzart.com.