Greenwood Lake, United States - November 16, 2024 This morning, the Greenwood Lake Fire Department was filled with applause as the community gathered for a “clap out,” honoring the firefighters who have been battling the Jennings Creek fire at Sterling Forest State Park. The tribute highlighted the immense gratitude felt for the crews working tirelessly to contain the blaze, now 90% under control. High winds over the weekend reignited the wildfire, forcing the voluntary evacuation of around 140 homes. Firefighters credit these precautions with helping protect the surrounding properties as aerial efforts continued, with helicopters dropping thousands of gallons of water from Greenwood Lake to suppress the flames. Despite this progress, officials like state forest ranger Bob Rogers cautioned that full containment hinges on nature’s cooperation. “This fire is not going out anytime soon, this is going to be Mother Nature putting the final lid on this one,” Rogers said. While no structures are currently at risk, the smoky conditions have kept the Greenwood Lake school district closed. The community’s focus also turns to mourning 18-year-old Dariel Vasquez, a State Parks Wildland fire crew member who died clearing dry brush. A wake was held Sunday, with his funeral set for Monday at St. Peter's Church in Haverstraw. Flags fly at half-staff in his memory, honoring a life cut short in service to protecting others.