First responders' response

BIG SPRING Monday’s holiday turned into an adrenaline-driven workday for West Texans who responded to the Alon Refinery explosion in Big Spring.

From the onset of flames and billowing smoke clouds, first responders throughout the region joined forces to attack the blaze, aid the injured and provide operation support.

CareStar from Medical Center Hospital in Odessa and other emergency helicopters reacted speedily to the refinery explosion, not knowing the extent of the crisis — in all, five people suffered non-life-threatening injures.

Big Spring Mayor Russ McEwen said he was thankful for the rapid response from communities like Odessa, Midland, Snyder and San Angelo.

“It is so gratifying,” he said. “People have shown up who we never even asked to come.”

Officials from Midland Fire Department said two of its engines with local firefighters made the trip to assist with the flames.

And Odessa’s Salvation Army, led by executive director Sgt. Jay Ward, set up camp near the disaster scene to provide drinks and hot meals to emergency workers.

“We’re prepared to serve breakfast, lunch and supper to any of the workers and those evacuated,” he said. “We’ve got hot dogs going right now, beef stew tonight and breakfast burritos in the morning.”

Even as flames and smoke continued to roll upward from the ignited refinery, Ward said the Salvation Army’s mission is to meet the needs of the community — their stay in Big Spring could last a few days.

“This kind of a disaster, we take it very seriously,” he said. “This is what we do, year-round.

“We have motel rooms for the night, and I brought four changes of clothes — so, we’re set for a few days,” he said.