This is a fund that has been established to assist the FS employees involved with the Cramer fire.....who have the possibility of facing criminal charges.

Cramer Legal Defense and Employee Assistance Fund

November 1, 2004

In July of 2003 a wildfire claimed the lives of two firefighters on the Salmon-Challis National Forest. This tragic fire impacted the lives of many people; including, fallen firefighter family members, survivors, and many other employees.

The accident was investigated by the Forest Service, the Office of Inspector General (OIG) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Disciplinary actions are moving forward by the Intermountain Regional Forester against several employees. The US Attorney in Boise, Idaho has paneled a Grand Jury to review the facts. Criminal indictments could be returned on one or more individuals.

A legal defense and employee assistance fund has been established to provide financial support to Forest Service employees who need assistance to respond to administrative and potential criminal charges.

Contributions can be made to:

Account No. 1000015584 Cashmere Valley Bank
Cramer Legal Defense Fund P.O. Box 5040
127 Easy Street
Wenatchee, WA 98807

This fund will remain open until April 1, 2005. The Fund Administrator is G. Elton Thomas with assistance from several others. Funds will be distributed on the basis of demonstrated need. Any funds remaining in the account on April 2, 2005, will be donated to the National Fallen Firefighter Foundation, Emmitsburg, MD.

A copy of the Fund Charter can be obtained upon request, by writing: Fund Administrator, 1031 Canal Blvd, Wenatchee, WA 98801.

This is a privately established and managed fund that is not sponsored or endorsed by any government agency and it does not have tax exempt status.

Cramer Legal Defense and Employee Assistance Fund Charter

November 1, 2004

Purpose: The purpose of this fund is to provide financial assistance to employees (current or former) involved with administrative and legal proceedings resulting from the Cramer Fire.

Process: Contributed funds will be distributed by a three member Board of Directors, one of whom is G. Elton Thomas, Fund Administrator. The Board will have sole responsibility for these funds and shall develop controls to account for fund distribution and management. Records shall be kept and made available for review.

Distribution: Requests for funds shall be made to the Board in writing and shall be limited to those named in administrative sanctions by the Forest Service and/or are the target of potential criminal charges resulting from the Cramer Fire. Monies from the Fund will only be distributed to current or former employees. Written requests shall be submitted to:

Fund Administrator

Cramer Legal Defense and Employee Assistance Fund
1031 Canal Blvd
Wenatchee, WA 98801

The written notice shall detail the specific reasons for the request. All decisions by the Board are final and are not subject to appeal or litigation.