PHOTO: After helping rescue a baby cub from a wildfire in March, first responders in Wythe County are being recognized with a PETA award.
On March 14, a brush fire quickly blazed out of control and overwhelmed the resources of local firefighters. But putting out the flames wasn't the only mission that day for first responders.
According to the Ivanhoe Volunteer Fire Department, the small bear cub was rescued from danger.
"The Ivanhoe Volunteer Fire Department was able to assist in the rescue of a bear cub," the fire department said. "The cub was rescued by the Wythe County Assistant Administrator Matt Hankins and turned over to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources." Hankins is one of those honored by the award, according to PETA, which also names Wythe County Department of Emergency Services Director Chuck Parnell and his staff.