Dominique Lain, mayor of Luc-en-Provence, vice-president of the Var Departmental Council (CD83) and president of the Departmental Fire and Rescue Service (CASDIS), received a prestigious Marianne d'Or for his management of the terrible fire which ravaged Gonfaron and its surroundings in August 2021. The presentation of this distinction, marked by moments marked by emotion and recognition, took place in the presence of Jean-Louis Masson, senator of Var, and François de Canson, president of the Communauté de communes Méditerranée Porte des Maures.
Management praised in the face of an unprecedented disaster
The Gonfaron fire, considered one of the most violent to have hit the Var in recent years, destroyed nearly 7,000 hectares of forest, caused the evacuation of thousands of residents and left deep traces in the region. Faced with this dramatic situation, Dominique Lain distinguished himself by his crisis management, effectively coordinating relief, supporting those affected and helping to limit human and material losses.
As president of CASDIS, Dominique Lain also ensured that all of the Var firefighters were mobilized as well as reinforcements from other departments. His commitment, both on the ground and in communicating with residents, was unanimously praised.
A symbolic Golden Marianne
The Marianne d'Or, a distinction which rewards the initiatives and commitments of local elected officials, today recognizes the efforts and composure of the mayor of Luc-en-Provence. This award, beyond the tribute paid to Dominique Lain, also highlights the hard work of firefighters, local elected officials and residents mobilized in the face of this tragedy.
During the ceremony, Dominique Lain wanted to dedicate this distinction to “all those who worked, often at the risk of their lives, to protect our villages and our forests”. A moment full of emotion which underlined the exceptional solidarity displayed during these events.
A commitment that inspires
This national recognition for Dominique Lain illustrates the importance of rigorous and human management in crises of this magnitude. It also recalls the need to continue efforts to prevent fires and preserve natural spaces in the Var.