South Dakota nonprofit supports family of firefighter who passed away en-route to Jewel Cave wildfire

DENTON COUNTY, S.D. — A nonprofit organization that works to honor public servants has presented a $10,000 memorial check to the wife of a firefighter who passed away last week while en-route to a wildfire near Jewel Cave.

South Dakota Salutes is dedicated to recognizing those who serve and protect the state’s citizens, including law enforcement personnel, emergency responders and military members. The check was presented to Caffy Hudson, widow of Dwain Hudson, by Minnehaha Sheriff Mike Milstead, Custer County Sheriff Marty Mechaley and Mitchell’s Chief of Public Safety Lyndon Overweg.

Photo Courtesy of the Minnehaha Sheriff’s Office

Hudson was a member of the Argyle Volunteer Fire Department. On April 17 he experienced a medical emergency while traveling to an active wildfire near Jewel Cave.

Other AVFD firefighters and EMS responders immediately rendered emergency medical aid, and Hudson was transported to Custer Regional Hospital, but resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful.

“So honored to present a $10,000 check from South Dakota Salutes to Caffy Hudson, widow of fallen Argyle Volunteer Firefighter Dwain Hudson who died in the line of duty in Custer County last week. Rest in peace sir. South Dakota Salutes you,” tweeted the Minnehaha Sheriff on Wednesday.