Senator Dahle Adjourns in the Memory of Tony Sousa

Helicopter pilot, Tony Sousa, tragically passed away while performing wildfire aerial operations. Tony was a determined man. He was the best at whatever he set his mind to. Once he decided to become a pilot, nothing could stop him. Tony was not going to be an average helicopter pilot, he was going to be an A+ pilot, and he was. He achieved top scores on all of his exams. After becoming a pilot, he became a flight instructor and developed future pilots. In his latest adventure Tony was pivotal in implementing the CAL FIRE Helicopter Coordinator (HLCO) training program which started in 2022. He was the first Night Vision Goggles qualified HLCO pilot qualified by CAL FIRE. We will never forget his courage and fight to keep California families safe from devastating wildfires. His legacy will continue forever in our hearts.