Well, here we are again. I recognize that tree… You may be asking yourselves, where are we exactly? Allow me to explain. In October of 2021 I published a piece called Wildland Fire’s Great Exodus, which if you missed it, you're welcome to read by clicking here. The quick synopsis however, is this; federally employed wildland firefighters (WFFs) … Continue reading The Panic Button
One Step at a Time
You know what’s awesome? Analogies. And it just so happens that I have an analogy to share with you, which I’ll happy toss your way in just a moment.
Fire Family
We refer to ourselves as fire family with great intention because we aren’t close friends, that would actually be quite the misrepresentation. The term family signifies a closeness, but it also encapsulates the ruggedness of human relationships...
Wildland Fire’s Great Exodus
The Great Exodus that is occurring amongst the ranks of the wildland firefighting population is on a catastrophic trajectory because of what it will mean for wildfire response moving into the future.
The 40 Year Old Fill-In
When the pandemic hit in 2020, it flipped everything sideways for the fire community and most things were uncertain except for one; fires would still happen, and firefighters would have to respond. At the time, I was in a secondary fire position which didn’t require me to take an assignment but with the position I … Continue reading The 40 Year Old Fill-In
Duty, Respect, Integrity.
Duty There is a sense of purpose behind this work. Choosing a career in public service is about contributing to something bigger than yourself; it is actively prioritizing the needs of others above your own. Along with the selfless nature of the job, another component is discomfort. More often times than not you’ll be drenched … Continue reading Duty, Respect, Integrity.
Ten-Foot-Pole
There’s seems to be this one certain subject that is sooooo complex and convoluted, and at times contentious, that essentially no one wants to touch it with a ten-foot-pole. Each time someone even grazes the topic people get hot under the collar and so, folks keep their distance as if it were a hornet’s nest. I’m … Continue reading Ten-Foot-Pole