In the last year, Ventura County's first responders have been put through the wringer.
From the Thomas Fire in December 2017 to the Woolsey Fire, and the shooting at the Borderline Bar & Grill in between in November, it's safe to say it hasn't been easy.
But in the face of all the hardship and tragedy, Ventura County Fire Chief Mark Lorenzen has been a steadying force not only for the first responders, but for the community — which is why Congresswoman Julia Brownley will have Lorenzen as her guest to the State of the Union Address Tuesday night in Washington, D.C.
“I am honored that Ventura County Fire Chief Mark Lorenzen will join me as my guest for the State of the Union,” said Brownley, D-Westlake Village, in a statement. “From the Thomas Fire to the recent Woolsey and Hill fires, our community has been tested, but with the brave leadership of Chief Lorenzen, we have remained strong and resilient.