My career as a wildland firefighter spanned over 27 years. Two of those years were with the National Park Service, and 25 years with the US Forest Service. I have served as a member on hotshot crews, prescribed fire modules, wildland fire engines, in air operations as an Air Tactical Group Supervisor, and in various levels of Chief positions. Throughout my fire service career, I served on various training cadres as teaching others and passing along knowledge is a true passion of mine. I retired from the USFS in January 2020 as the Deputy Manager of the Northern California Geographic Area Coordination Center and currently work as a casual hire (AD) Air Attack when the need arises. My education includes earning a Certificate of Studies in Wildland Fire Management from Humboldt State University in 2009.
In 2007, I was recruited to the US Forest Service Honor Guard, where I remained an active member until retirement. I served as the Deputy Commander from 2012 – 2016. In 2016, I was asked, and accepted the position of Honor Guard Commander, which I remained until retirement. It was during my tenure with the Honor Guard that I developed and maintained a relationship with the Wildland Firefighter Foundation and all the folks that operate the foundation. The first Line of Duty Death (LODD) I assisted with occurred in 2008. This was Chief Daniel Packer on the Panther Fire on the Klamath National Forest. On the heels of Chief Packers death, was the multi-fatality Iron 44 helicopter crash. It was during the preparation and implementation of these LODD services that I was exposed to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation and all that they do to take care of the friends and families of the fallen. It is because of this relationship and my Honor Guard experiences, that my passion grew for taking care of those who were unable to take care of themselves in times of need.
I am the proud father of four children and one son in law who are in the wildland fire business, either with the US Forest Service, or Bureau of Land Management. I am extremely proud to be called “Papa” by six grandchildren. I am married to a wonderful woman who has supported me throughout my career despite all the challenges and nuances it has presented.