11/14/2025
This week, American House Riverview hosted a luncheon to celebrate and honor the first responder teams who heroically ensured every resident was safely evacuated from the American House Southgate fire, as well as Director Diane Grabowski and her team at the Southgate Senior Center, for their help with our residents. The luncheon offered a meaningful moment for the crews to share their experiences and reflect on the events of that day:
"We take our jobs very seriously, and we always prepare for the worst-case scenarios. When they happen, we can go right into action and do our jobs the best that we can," said Allen Park Fire Chief Jeff O'Riley. "It's what I expect out of my crews and�I know it's what is expected out of all the crews downriver. We come together as a team any time to help each other out."
Southgate Fire Captain Dan Werling shared similar sentiments. "We [Downriver Fire and Police teams] were all working together to get residents out. I think we did a great job, no one was severely injured in the event, and I am just so thankful for everyone that came together to help."
Everyone at American House can't thank all the first responders enough! Thank you to the teams at Southgate, Riverview, Allen Park, Brownstown, Lincoln Park, Wyandotte, Grosse Ile, Gibraltar, Huron Twp, Rockwood, Taylor, Detroit, and Flat Rock. You are all superstars!!
Make sure to keep your eyes peeled on Monday for another appreciation post, and check out the amazing news article from WXYZ News Detroit to hear more stories from first responders and American House residents: https://www.americanhouse.com/blog/southgate-fire-survivors-thank-first-responders-who-saved-their-lives-wxyz-tv
