Legendary Firefighter Honored with Renamed Highway in North County
In a heartfelt tribute to regional firefighting hero William Bill Clayton, a section of Interstate 5 in North County has been officially renamed as the CAL FIRE Chief William R Clayton Memorial Highway. The dedication and sign unveiling ceremony took place on what would have been Clayton’s 83rd birthday, paying homage to one of Cal Fire’s most decorated firefighters.
The memorial highway stretches from La Costa Avenue in Encinitas to Cannon Road in Carlsbad, serving as a permanent reminder of Clayton’s remarkable 50-year firefighting career and his unwavering dedication to saving lives and protecting communities.
Clayton’s illustrious journey in firefighting commenced with the U.S. Forest Service at the Cleveland National Forest. Throughout his career, he also held positions such as fire captain for the Orange County Fire Department, Assistant Chief at the Rainbow Conservation Camp for Cal Fire, Division Chief for Cal Fire, and Sycuan Fire Department chief.
During his heroic endeavors, Clayton was twice honored with the Medal of Valor, the highest recognition for bravery bestowed by the state. The first Medal of Valor was awarded in 1998 when Clayton fearlessly drove through a 50-foot wall of flames to rescue three individuals from their home near Lake Wohlford in Escondido. In 2006, he earned his second Medal of Valor for his extraordinary actions during the devastating Paradise and Cedar fires in 2003. Clayton was credited with saving nearly 200 elderly patrons who were trapped in the Valley View Casino in Valley Center and leading a firefight that successfully protected downtown Julian.
Born and raised in San Diego, Clayton was a proud graduate of Oceanside High School and San Diego State University. Unfortunately, this legendary firefighter passed away in 2018 at his Carlsbad home at the age of 77.
The renaming of the highway not only commemorates Clayton’s exceptional bravery and lifetime of service but also serves as an inspiration for current and future firefighters. It highlights the importance of their work in safeguarding communities and reminds us of the sacrifices these heroes make every day.
The CAL FIRE Chief William R Clayton Memorial Highway stands as a symbol of gratitude and respect to a man who risked his life countless times to protect others. Clayton’s legacy will forever live on through this tribute, ensuring that his name and heroic actions are never forgotten.
