McMillan thanks community leaders for support during fire

August 4, 2011—Los Alamos National Laboratory Director Charlie McMillan thanked nearly 200 invited community leaders last Thursday (August 4) for the support LANL received during the recent Las Conchas Fire and said he looks forward to a continued, positive relationship with LANL's neighbors. He also said LANL remains at the forefront of science and creativity, with a focus on teamwork to solve pressing national problems.

Speaking at the Eldorado Hotel in downtown Santa Fe, McMillan, who addressed community leaders for the first time in his capacity as director, said lessons learned—and the extensive investments the federal government made after the 2000 Cerro Grande Fire—served the Lab well in helping to keep it safe and protected. He also acknowledged damage the fire caused to nearby communities and said Lab employees and Los Alamos National Security are lending a hand by volunteering to fill sandbags, collecting pet supplies, and engaging in other efforts.

NNSA Los Alamos Site Office Manager Kevin Smith followed McMillan to the podium and lauded the many agencies that came together during the Las Conchas Fire.

The community leaders breakfasts are coordinated by the Community Programs Office.