Four children recognized for heroic action, preventing on-base fire Published June 27, 2025 By Senior Airman Anthony Nunez-Pellicer 319th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- The 319th Civil Engineer Squadron recognized four children as honorary firefighters after their quick thinking helped prevent a house fire from spreading June 13, 2025. Asher Baker, Owen Baker, Emmy Baker and Hunter Cole were playing outside the evening of May 31, when they noticed smoke and flames near the driveway of a neighboring home. Without hesitation, the children ran to alert the nearest group of adults. “We noticed the kids just ran up to us and they said, ‘Hey, there’s a fire and it’s not in a fire pit,’” said Col. Timothy Monroe, commander of the 319th Reconnaissance Wing. “I ran straight to where they pointed, and sure enough, flames were climbing the side of the house. If they hadn’t spoken up so quickly, it could’ve been much worse.” Following the children' s quick thinking, neighbors sprang into action by using buckets of water to help slow the fire spread until firefighters arrived. The 319th CES attributes the first responder’s ability to arrive on scene within minutes to the children’s vigilance and quick action. Once on scene, firefighters quickly brought the blaze under control, with only minor damage reported. “It takes a lot of courage to run up to a group of adults and shout for help,” said Tech. Sgt. Justin Davis, station chief with the 319th CES. “These kids didn’t hesitate—and that made all the difference. If the fire had gone unnoticed for even a few more minutes, the outcome could’ve been very different.” To recognize their bravery and vigor, the 319th CES organized a private tour for the children and their families. At the end of the visit, each child was presented with a certificate naming them an honorary firefighter. “Anyone can be a hero, and these kids proved it,” Monroe said. “That kind of courage and vigilance is exactly what we strive for in the Air Force. If they’re already showing that kind of character at this age, the future is bright.” With their new titles and certificates in hand, Grand Forks AFB has four more watchful eyes looking out for the base community.