2000's Statistics and Crew Rosters
2000
The 2000 Region 5 Smokejumper crew began the new millennium with several projects underway. To begin with, Redding was the host for the Sixtieth Anniversary of Smokejumping, “Reunion 2000”. The event sponsored by the National Smokejumper Association was held in June. Much work went into preserving the Redding Smokejumper History and preparing the base for the one thousand plus visitors that would tour the facility. Among the guests were Deputy Chief Janice McDougle, and members of the “Triple Nickel’s”, the all black paratrooper battalion who provided smokejumping services to the Forest Service during World War II.
California experienced average precipitation during the winter, but spring’s warm temperatures dried the forests rapidly. The Smokejumper unit prepared for another busy season. On April 3rd, 24 smokejumpers started the annual two-week refresher training. Again this season, having smokejumpers trained and available early proved valuable. Although California had not yet started its fire season, Redding sent boosters to Silver City NM, Fairbanks AK, and Grand Junction CO. In fact, this early season booster activity would be a precursor for the fire season ahead.
Smokejumper activity, like fire activity within Region Five was below normal this year whereas smokejumper utilization outside the Region was above normal. The first incident jumped in Region 5 was the Adam Fire on the Plumas National Forest on June 26th. During the next week we experienced a burst of activity with jumpers staffing fires on the Lassen, Shasta-Trinity and Plumas National Forests. The latter half of July proved slow with jumpers staffing only a few fires within the Region. While most wildfire activity was occurring outside California management had the foresight to maintain initial attack capability by ensuring a load of jumpers were available for Region 5 Forests the entire summer. All other available jumpers were assigned to fight fires outside the state.
Weather during the early part of August produced lightning in the southern half of California. Smokejumpers staffed several fires on the Sierra National Forest during this time. These fires were initial-attacked from Redding with no fuel stops necessary prior to staffing the incidents. Notable was the Post fire burning in the John Muir Wilderness, which was staffed by eight jumpers on August 10th. The potential for this fire to become a major incident was great, but due to accurate retardant drops and timely staffing by jumpers and district personnel, the fire was held to just five acres. Smokejumpers filled all the key ICS roles for this incident and called the fire out just a few days after their arrival.
Within Region, fire activity for the remainder of the season moved slowly, however R-5 jumpers continued assisting other regions with their severe fire situations. Just as smokejumpers came from all regions last summer to assist with our busy season, the roles reversed this year as Redding jumpers made 197 fire jumps outside California. Again, the ability to move smokejumper resources long distances, often within the same burning period proved invaluable for land managers all across the Western United States. Within California, R-5 jumpers made 149 fire jumps on 8 National Forests, one CDF Ranger Unit, and the BLM’s California Desert District.
R-5 jumpers engaged the New York City APHIS project again this year as we completed over 10,000 person hours of tree climbing in the some of the finest hardwoods that the East Coast has to offer. The project is a large one, and one that oten makes you feel like you are looking for a needle in a haystack.
On a personal note, the Smokejumper unit is currently going through a renaissance. To begin with, we have created a new organizational chart for the base. This new organization splits the Operations and Training Foreman into two positions and makes Operations, Training and Loft into 3 GS-9 positions. There are four GS-8 positions, which will be called smokejumper Captains. There are four GS-7 positions called Smokejumper Squad leaders. In addition there will be eight appointed GS-6 13/13 positions. This is a long awaited re-organization. At the same time, we are also seeing many of our experienced jumpers leave the Unit. Rick Haagenson accepted a job at the Redding Air Unit as an agency pilot. Stan Kubota accepted a job as the Air Tanker base Manager at Chester, California. Steve Murphy, Albert Foley, and Derrek Hartman also left this summer to pursue other endeavors in Fire and Aviation Management. Bob Harris retired after 25 years of smokejumping and 9 years as Redding’s Loft Foreman.
In addition to the previous career changes we are also continuing to see an exodus of jumpers over to the BLM smokejumper program. This year more than usual, as 6 Redding jumpers will be going to the land of big paychecks and endless jump spots.
This change in personnel and organization will probably lead to a big rookie class for 2001. This being more probable in that management is proposing to increase the number of Smokejumpers within Region 5. This is a great opportunity for many young smokejumpers to move up in the organization and become the leaders of tomorrow. Speaking of the leaders of tomorrow, Rick Rataj was the mayor for 2000.
2000 Statistics
Smokejumpers: 44 50 Jump Award
Morgan Baker
New Jumpers: 9 John Casey
Greg Fashano
Aircraft: Two (Dornier & Twin Otter) Peter Stephenson
100 Jump Award
Alaska Detail: Not Activated Frank Goodson
150 Jump Award
Region 3 Detail: Mark Lane
Steve Franke 250 Jump Award
Karl Johnson Bob Bente
Derrek Hartman Dennis Golik
Stan Kubota
Base Manager: Arlen Cravens
Operations Foreman: Rick Haagenson (Detailed to Tim Quigley and Bob Bente)
Loft Foreman: Bob Harris (Detailed to Scott Brockman and Don Sand)
2000
Region 5 Smokejumpers
Name Position
ALEXANDER, Matthew Smokejumper
BAKER, Morgan Smokejumper
BENTE, Robert Squadleader/Spotter (temp. Operations Foreman)
BOOKER, Ron Smokejumper
BRIANT, Peter Smokejumper Trainee
BROCKMAN, Scott Squadleader/Spotter (temp. Loft Foreman)
CASEY, John Smokejumper
CRAVENS, Arlen Base Manager/Spotter
FASHANO, Greg Smokejumper
FOLEY, Al (Transferred to LNF) Smokejumper
FRANKE, Steve Smokejumper
GOLIK, Dennis Smokejumper
GOMEZ, Luis Smokejumper
GOODSON, Frank Smokejumper
HAAGENSON, Rick Smokejumper Ops/Training Foreman/Spotter
HARRIS, Bob (Retired) Loft Foreman
HARTMAN, Derrek (Transferred to WYS) Smokejumper
HERNANDEZ, Dan Smokejumper/Spotter
HOKANSON, Mitchell Smokejumper Trainee
JOHNSON, David Smokejumper Trainee
JOHNSON, Karl Smokejumper
KUBOTA, Stan (Transferred to LNF) Squadleader/Spotter
LANE, Mark Smokejumper
LAUBER, Adam Smokejumper
LIGHTNER, Dorsey Smokejumper
LOE, Matthew Smokejumper
MATHIESEN, Josh Smokejumper
MOORE, Annette Smokejumper Clerk
MORROW, Scott Smokejumper
MURPHY, Steve (Transferred to PNF) Smokejumper
OMONT, Ron Smokejumper/Spotter
ORR, Russell Smokejumper
QUIGLEY, Tim Squadleader/Spotter (temp. Operations Foreman)
RATAJ, Rick Smokejumper Trainee
ROACH, Shane Smokejumper
SAND, Don Squadleader/Spotter (temp. Loft Foreman)
SMITH, Rachel Smokejumper Trainee
SPENCE, Gerald Smokejumper
STEPHENSON, Peter Smokejumper
TURNER, Robert Smokejumper Trainee
YAMAMOTO, Andrew Smokejumper
YODER, Deborah Smokejumper Trainee
DETAILERS
GONZALES, Joe (SNF) Smokejumper TraineeGONZALEZ, Richard (Rico) (TNF) Smokejumper
MORENO, Robert (LNF) Smokejumper Trainee
STEVENS, Chris (ENF) Smokejumper
2001
Prologue
As a result of the 2000 fire season the National Fire Plan was implemented to provide Most Efficient Level (MEL) funding for Federal fire suppression resources. To assist the Pacific Southwest Region in meeting this charge the Smokejumper program proposed adding 9 additional smokejumpers and increasing delivery capability by replacing the contracted Twin Otter aircraft, with a contract DC-3T aircraft having a 6,670 lb payload and the ability to deliver 18 smokejumpers. After consideration the proposition was embraced by the National Office and approved by the Region.
Aerial Delivery Fires in Region 5: Person Hours By Forest
On July 25 2001, Smokejumpers were requested for the Indian fire on the Plumas National Forest. J-52 (a DC-3T) was loaded with 18 jumpers and en route to the incident, 81 nautical miles south of the Redding smokejumper base, at 1924. All 18 jumpers were deployed on this incident. Three helitack crewmembers were on scene, but were able to demob once the jumpers arrived, to remain available for initial attack. The fire was burning actively at 2230 with a temperature of 80 degrees and a relative humidity of 17%. The smokejumpers contained the fire at 2 acres by 2400. The Indian fire had great potential due to burning conditions and topography, but a successful initial attack defused this fire’s potential.
On August 8th a lightning storm ignited the Shields fire in the South Warner Wilderness of the Modoc National Forest. Initially the fire was jumped with eighteen on the morning of August 9th. That afternoon 11 smokejumpers were dropped to reinforce the incident. The 29 jumpers contained the incident by 0600 the next morning at 160 acres. They received no air, crew or logistical support until the third day of the incident. Safely containing this fire was a difficult task. Relative humidity’s were in the single digits and thunderstorm induced winds caused erratic fire behavior. Several fires that were ignited by the same storm escaped initial attack, including the Blue, which burned 34,401 acres.
At 1455 on August 26th 2001, Smokejumpers were requested for the Bear fire on the Tahoe National Forest. Initially the fire was jumped with eleven firefighters and one qualified Incident Commander. At 1733 a second load of smokejumpers were delivered and 12 additional Type 1 firefighters began work on this incident. The Bear fire was burning actively with some spots found ½ mile out in front of the main fire. Smokejumpers recorded an 1810 relative humidity of 18% and also reported moderate difficulty in containing the fire due to burning conditions and rugged terrain. That evening, a para-cargo request for portable pumps, hose, fuel, and miscellaneous fittings was forwarded to the Smokejumper Unit in Redding. By 0800 the next morning, 2025 pounds of Para-cargo was on the ground at the incident, and the smokejumpers prepared hose lays around both flanks. The smokejumpers, with other suppression resources working in concert, safely contained the fire on the afternoon of the 27th.
Project work again this year was dominated by the New York City APHIS project. Over 7000 person hours were spent climbing East Coast Hardwoods in search of the elusive Asian Longhorned Beetle. In addition to tree work, prescribed fire projects occupied a fair amount of the smokejumpers time this year, mostly in the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area.
The renaissance continues in Redding with some new faces filling the new positions left by the base reorganization. Along with the new, a significant old face left the base this year in search of greener pastures or possibly some bigger paychecks. Arlen Cravens, smokejumper Base Manager since 1995 accepted the Assistant Forest Fire Management Officer position on the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. The Base Manager position, now being vacant, will undergo re-classification and be flown as a GS-12 when done. One can only imagine how long this process will take. In the interim, Don Sand was acting Base manager.
Redding’s new organization goes as follows: Three GS-9 Battalions, with Bob Bente in Training, Tim Quigley in the Loft, and Don Sand in Operations. Five GS-8 Captains received by Josh Mathiesen, Steve Murphy, Jerry Spence, Scott Brockman and Steve Franke. Five GS-7 positions received by Richard Gonzalez, John Casey, Hernan Sotela, Dorsey Lightner and Luis Gomez.
There were sixteen rookies that were deemed successful for the 2001 season. The rookie training was particularly warm this year and for the most part we ended up with a good bunch. Although there was one rookie, who subsequently washed out after rookie camp, who missed the small spot at wheeler ranch by atleast one mile. This was quite an impressive feat. The mayor for 2001 was Chris Joyce, who threw up on a daily basis during his training.
Much like a new pair of boots, it will take a while for the smokejumpers to break into their new organization. But also like new boots, once broken in, there is no mountain that can’t be climbed or limit to what our organization can achieve.
2001 Statistics
Smokejumpers: fourty-three 50 Jumps Award: 450 Jumps Award:
Rookies: sixteen Richard Gonzalez Ron Omont
Aircraft: C-23A Shorts Sherpa Adam Lauber Tim Quigley
Douglas DC-3T Mitch Hokanson
Pilots: Bob Coward, Eric Lancaster Hernan Sotela
Rick Haagenson, Wendy Gima Dave Johnson
Dan Johnson, David Seest, Deborah Yoder
Charlie Roberts, Travis Brown 150 Jumps Award:
Region Three Detail: Josh Mathiesen
Ron Omont 200 Jumps Award:
Morgan Baker Dorsey Lightner
Greg Fashano
Base Manager: Vacant (Don Sand Acting)
Operations Foreman: Don Sand
Training Foreman: Bob Bente
Loft Foreman: Tim Quigley
2001
region 5 smokejumpers
ALEXANDER, Matthew Smokejumper
BAKER, Morgan Smokejumper
BENTE, Robert Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Training)
BLINN, Michael Smokejumper Trainee
BROCKMAN, Scott Smokejumper Captain
CASEY, John Smokejumper Squad Leader
CRAVENS, Arlen Base Manager(Transferred to Shasta-Trinity)
DORNBERGER, Kyle Smokejumper Trainee
FASHANO, Greg Smokejumper
FRANKE, Steve Smokejumper Captain
GERMANN, Hans Smokejumper Trainee
GOLIK, Dennis Smokejumper
GOMEZ, Luis Smokejumper Squad Leader
GONZALES, Joe Smokejumper
GONZALEZ, Richard (Rico) Smokejumper Squad Leader
GRAHAM, Don Smokejumper Trainee
GUNTER, Chris Smokejumper Trainee
HESSE, Nathan Smokejumper Trainee
HOCKMAN, Wally Smokejumper Trainee
HOKANSON, Mitch Smokejumper
JOHNSON, Dave Smokejumper
JOHNSON, Karl Smokejumper
JOYCE, Christopher Smokejumper Trainee
KARUZAS, Isaac Smokejumper Trainee
LANE, Mark Smokejumper
LAUBER, Adam Smokejumper
LIGHTNER, Dorsey Smokejumper Squad Leader
MATHIESEN, Josh Smokejumper Captain
MURPHY, Steve Smokejumper Captain
OMONT, Ron Smokejumper
PEREZ, Oscar Smokejumper Trainee
POTENZIANI, Alessandro Smokejumper Trainee
QUIGLEY, Tim Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Loft)
RAMSEY, Casey Smokejumper Trainee
RATAJ, Rick Smokejumper
SAND, Don Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Operations)
SCHULTZ, Geoff Smokejumper Trainee
SOTELA, Hernan Smokejumper Squad Leader
SPENCE, Jerry Smokejumper Captain
SUNDAL, Ben Smokejumper Trainee
VEALE, Jonathan Smokejumper Trainee
WALKER, Ernie Smokejumper Trainee
YODER, Deborah Smokejumper
2002
The California Smokejumper program is continuing to thrive bolstered by another successful season. The 204 fire jumps within Region 5 was slightly below the 10-year average but the contribution of 246 fire jumps outside the region by California Smokejumpers was well above average. The season breaks down as follows:
Forty-seven smokejumpers operated out of the Redding base for the 2002 season. As mentioned earlier, fire activity was significant outside of Region 5 this year. Most of the activity occurred in Colorado and Oregon where R-5 jumpers performed 191 fire jumps and were immensely successful in suppressing over 60 fires.
Preparations for the upcoming fire season began on March 25th with the first refresher. Although Smokejumpers were prepared early again this year, the first fire jump in Region 5 did not occur until June 2nd on the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. The last jump in the region occurred October 26th on the Klamath National Forest. Between these two dates, 204 jumpers went out the door to aid in the suppression of 29 fires, and from these statistics arose some notable success stories for the R-5 smokejumper unit.
On August 7th the San Bernardino National Forest chose to use smokejumpers to suppress a logistically difficult fire burning at 10,500 feet in the San Gorgonio Wilderness. The Shields Fire was approximately 530 nautical miles from Redding Smokejumper Base, and 5 smokejumpers plus cargo were deployed 3.5 hours after the order was placed (Only 5 jumpers were deployed because all other smokejumpers within the region were committed). The jumpers self sufficiency was important on this incident because the San Bernardino did not have helicopters available that could perform at such high altitudes and ground resources were required to hike for 7 hours in order to reach the incident. The fire was a result of a military airplane crash, where the pilot survived with numerous broken bones.
Smokejumper initial attack responsibility extends well into Oregon and Nevada. This was demonstrated 3 times this season as R-5 jumper’s initial attacked two fires in Oregon and one in Nevada. On one fire in Oregon, the large payload of 16 jumpers plus cargo, and the range provided by the DC-3T aircraft, proved to be the determining factor in the suppression of that fire.
On September 10th the Shasta-Trinity National Forest called upon smokejumpers to suppress the Coffee Incident. The first load of jumpers flew out with 15 on board and was reinforced with another 7 a short while later. The 22 jumpers on the ground provided a Type 1 crew and an ICT3. Most importantly, the jumpers and additional resources caught the fire, which precluded the need for a Type 2 Incident Management Team, who was on ordered standby.
The character of the smokejumper unit continues to evolve and move forward despite the bureaucratic adversity that seems to inhibit progress. As the dawn broke on New Years day, the Base Manager Position remained vacant. Don Sand is acting. As the year came to a close the Base Manager position remained vacant, with Tim Quigley acting.
On April 8th, The R-5 smokejumpers coordinated a Regional Crew Boss Academy with 55 students completing the 4-week curriculum. Luis Gomez and Josh Mathiesen were the primary coordinators for the Academy which offered students all of the courses needed for the position of Crew Boss, as well as Leadership Training and Physical Fitness. For the most part the students were a good bunch, but there was some resistance to the smokejumper physical fitness program that the students were required to take part in.
On May 24th, 13 rookie smokejumpers completed their training and subsequently were able to draw for the list. Ashley Markley was elected Mayor for the class of 2002.
On November 4th, a significant commitment of California smokejumper tree climbers to the New York City APHIS project was underway. Fall is a fabulous time of year to be in New York City, and the work isn’t bad either.
2002 Statistics
Smokejumpers: fourty-seven 50 Jumps Award: 350 Jumps Award:
Rookies: thirteen Nathan Hesse Dan Hernandez
Aircraft: C-23A Shorts Sherpa Chris Joyce 400 Jumps Award:
Douglas DC-3T Casey Ramsey Don Sand
Pilots: Bob Coward, Eric Lancaster Rick Rataj
Rick Haagenson, Wendy Gima 100 Jumps Award:
Dan Johnson, David Seest, Matt Alexander
Charlie Roberts, Travis Brown 150 Jumps Award:
Region Three Detail: Jerry Spence
Dave Johnson 300 Jumps Award:
Jerry Spence Steve Franke
Rick Rataj
Base Manager: Don Sand
Operations Foreman: Vacant
Training Foreman: Bob Bente
Loft Foreman: Tim Quigley
2002
region 5 smokejumpers
ALEXANDER, Matthew Smokejumper
BAKER, Morgan Smokejumper
BENTE, Robert Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Training)
BLINN, Michael Smokejumper
BROCKMAN, Scott Smokejumper Captain (Transferred to Mendocino N.F.)
CASEY, John Smokejumper Squad Leader
Chamberlain, Paul Smokejumper Trainee
Coats, Daniel Smokejumper Trainee
Erwin, Tye Smokejumper Trainee
DORNBERGER, Kyle Smokejumper
Edwards, Caleb Smokejumper Trainee
FASHANO, Greg Smokejumper Squad Leader
FRANKE, Steve Smokejumper Captain
GOMEZ, Luis Smokejumper Squad Leader (Transferred to Tahoe N.F.)
GONZALES, Joe Smokejumper (Transferred to Mendocino N.F.)
Gonzalez, Jesse Smokejumper Trainee
GONZALEZ, Richard Smokejumper Squad Leader
GRAHAM, Don Smokejumper
GUNTER, Chris Smokejumper
Hall, Scott Smokejumper Trainee
HESSE, Nathan Smokejumper
HOCKMAN, Wally Smokejumper
HOKANSON, Mitch Smokejumper
JOHNSON, Dave Smokejumper
JOYCE, Christopher Smokejumper
KARUZAS, Isaac Smokejumper
LAUBER, Adam Smokejumper
LIGHTNER, Dorsey Smokejumper Squad Leader
Maier, Kevin Smokejumper Trainee
Markley, Ashley Smokejumper Trainee
MATHIESEN, Josh Smokejumper Captain
McGavren, Ed Smokejumper Trainee
MOORE, Annette Smokejumper Clerk
MURPHY, Steve Smokejumper Captain
OMONT, Ron Smokejumper
Patella, Dominic Smokejumper Trainee
POTENZIANI, Alessandro Smokejumper
QUIGLEY, Tim Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Loft)
RAMSEY, Casey Smokejumper
RATAJ, Rick Smokejumper
SAND, Don Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Operations)
SCHULTZ, Geoff Smokejumper
Smith, David Smokejumper Trainee
SOTELA, Hernan Smokejumper Squad Leader
SPENCE, Jerry Smokejumper Captain
Tomas, Kevin Smokejumper Trainee
Vargas, Frank Smokejumper
2003
There were 49 smokejumpers working in Region 5 for the 2003 season. Preparations began on March 17th, when the first refresher began their two weeks of training. Late spring precipitation delayed the start of fire season in Northern California and the first fire jump did not occur until June 18th, on the Modoc National Forest. The fire season progressed at a moderate pace and then picked up significantly as the season ended with smokejumper utilization being well above average. There were a total of 459 fire jumps on 11 Region 5 National Forests and 4 CDF Ranger Units. The last fire jump of the year occurred October 29th on the Tahoe National Forest. Between these two dates there are many success stories to be shared but none more telling than the following.
The opportunity to fully demonstrate what our program has to offer does not present itself very often. For us to show all that we are capable of takes a unique set of circumstances and conditions that rarely come into alignment. The week of August 31st through September 7th was one in which the utility of the smokejumper program was fully realized by land managers on several Northern California Forests. The lightning storm that occurred during the beginning of this period created hundreds of new starts that taxed all initial attack resources to their fullest extent.
Statistically what the Region 5 Smokejumpers accomplished during this period is impressive. During this eight day period there were a total of 213 fire jumps on 29 fires. These fires were spread out between four National Forests, two CDF Ranger Units, and one National Park. To put this into perspective, we completed 78% of our yearly average in fire jumps, in an eight day period. There were 120 smokejumpers operating out of the Redding base during this period from 7 different smokejumper bases and four regions. To be sure, many of the 29 fires that jumpers took action on during this period can be considered “saves”. These success stories helped fire managers focus their efforts on the incidents where initial attack was not successful or where fires proved to be logistically intrusive and time consuming. Notable examples from this period include:
Hat Fire, Shasta-Trinity National Forest, 9 smokejumpers dropped initially to reinforce local IA forces. The following morning 17 additional smokejumpers dropped to assist in suppression efforts. Fire held at 3.5 acres.
September 5th Operational Period: Smokejumpers took action on nine separate fires dropping 42 smokejumpers. The fires were divided between the Klamath and Shasta-Trinity National Forests. This suppression action is significant because all fires were in relatively remote terrain with high spread potential and timely initial attack was imperative. Additionally, local IA forces were spread extremely thin.
Mendocino National Forest: During the period from September 3rd through September 7th 48 smokejumpers were used to help suppress 6 fires on the Mendocino forest. The utilization of large payload fixed wing aircraft paid big dividends during this period.
In 2003, Smokejumpers operated out of San Bernardino for much of the summer. On occasion, the jumpers would standby at the airport, but for the most part, the jumpers remained available by completing project work on the forest. The forest was experiencing extreme bug kill in many of the trees and the jumpers fell thousands of the bug killed conifers. One fire was jumped out of the San Bernardino and that was on the Inyo National Forest. This fire was a two load affair, with the second load coming out of Redding. Most significant of all was the ground action fires that the jumpers participated in. In late October the Santa Ana Winds began to blow and Southern California began to burn. The jumpers fought some intense wildfire and saw fire behavior that you may only see once in a career.
Other notable events from 2003 are as follows. Josh Mathiesen spent two weeks detailed to the Washington Office, Fire and Aviation Management. Ron Omont spent his last season as a Region 5 Smokejumper. For 26 seasons Ron was a Redding Smokejumper and is most notable for being the first R-5 Smokejumper to reach 500 jumps. Ron contributed much over the years, particularly in the tool room and para-cargo areas. The mayor for 2003 was Shane Ralston.
Not sure about the 50 jump guys………………
2003 Statistics
Smokejumpers: fourty-nine 50 Jumps Award: 200 Jumps Award:
Rookies: fourteen Dan Coats Josh Mathiesen
Aircraft: C-23A Shorts Sherpa Kyle Dornberger 250 Jumps Award:
Douglas DC-3T Caleb Edwards Steve Murphy
Tye Erwin 500 Jumps Award:
Don Graham Ron Omont
Chris Gunter
Isaac Karuzas
Pilots: Bob Coward, Eric Lancaster Scott Smith
Rick Haagenson, Wendy Gima 100 Jumps Award:
Dan Johnson, David Seest, John Casey
Eric Petersen, Travis Brown Greg Fashano
Region Three Detail: No R-3 Detail Richard Gonzalez
Adam Lauber
Base Manager: Don Sand
Operations Foreman: Steve Murphy
Training Foreman: Bob Bente
Loft Foreman: Tim Quigley
2003
Region 5 Smokejumpers
Banducci, Dean...................................... Smokejumper Trainee
BENTE, Robert........................................ Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Training)
BOXRZ, Shane........................................ Smokejumper Trainee
CASEY, John........................................... Smokejumper Squad Leader
CLIFTON, Ryan....................................... Smokejumper Trainee
Coats, Daniel.......................................... Smokejumper
DORNBERGER, Kyle.............................. Smokejumper
Edwards, Caleb...................................... Smokejumper
Erwin, Tye............................................. Smokejumper
FASHANO, Greg..................................... Smokejumper Squad Leader
FRANKE, Steve...................................... Smokejumper Captain
Gonzalez, Jesse.................................... Smokejumper
GONZALEZ, Richard ............................. Smokejumper Squad Leader
GRAHAM, Don........................................Smokejumper
GUNTER, Chris......................................Smokejumper
Hall, Scott..............................................Smokejumper
HESSE, Nathan.....................................Smokejumper
HERNANDEZ, Dan……………………….Smokejumper Captain
HOCKMAN, Wally..................................Smokejumper
HOKANSON, Mitch................................ Smokejumper
HORN, Justin.......................................... Smokejumper Trainee
JACKSON, Colby.................................... Smokejumper Trainee
JOHNSON, Dave..................................... Smokejumper
JOYCE, Christopher................................. Smokejumper
KARUZAS, Isaac..................................... Smokejumper
KVISLER, Brian....................................... Smokejumper Trainee
LAUBER, Adam....................................... Smokejumper Squad Leader
LEE, Donovan.......................................... Smokejumper Trainee
Maier, Kevin............................................ Smokejumper
MARQUEZ, Felipe................................... Smokejumper Trainee
MATHIESEN, Josh.................................. Smokejumper Captain
McGavren, Ed........................................ Smokejumper
MOORE, Annette..................................... Smokejumper Clerk
MURPHY, Steve..................................... Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Operations)
OMONT, Ron........................................ Smokejumper
Patella, Dominic....................................Smokejumper
PONTES, Brian..................................... Smokejumper Trainee
QUIGLEY, Tim........................................ Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Loft)
RALSTON, Shane.................................... Smokejumper Trainee
RAMSEY, Casey...................................... Smokejumper
RATAJ, Rick............................................ Smokejumper
REEVES, Dylan....................................... Smokejumper Trainee
SAND, Don.............................................. Smokejumper Base Manager
SCHULTZ, Geoff...................................... Smokejumper
Smith, David............................................ Smokejumper
SOTELA, Hernan...................................... Smokejumper Captain
SPENCE, Jerry......................................... Smokejumper Captain
SUNDAL, Ben........................................... Smokejumper
THAMES, Mackenzie................................. Smokejumper Trainee
THOMPSON, Josh.................................... Smokejumper Trainee
VOSHALL, Josh........................................ Smokejumper Trainee
2004
This was the second year in a row where smokejumper utilization in Region 5 was above average. Smokejumpers parachuted to 52 fires for a total of 303 fire jumps in the Region this year. The first fire jump of the year came on May 23rd on the Tahoe National Forest. The last of the year was October 6th on the Six Rivers National Forest. Between these dates, the unit averaged about 3 fires a week encompassing 9 National Forests and 2 CDF Ranger Units.
Notable missions from the 2004 season are as follows: In August and September six lightning fires were jumped on the San Bernardino National Forest. The jumpers were doing project work on the forest while remaining available for a fire dispatch. This is significant, because smokejumpers have not been utilized much on the forests of Southern California and the utility of doing so is becoming realized.
The ability to deliver a large number of firefighters in a timely manner is something the smokejumper program prides itself on. This is particularly important for fires that are logistically difficult to support. In late September 2004, three loads of smokejumpers were dropped on a 20 acre fire in the Trinity Alps Wilderness of the Shasta Trinity National Forest. The 25 smokejumpers were instrumental in helping suppress the fire. It is worth mentioning that the third load, which was deployed on the second day of the fire, was actually on the San Bernardino that morning doing project work and flew up to reinforce the fire that afternoon.
In addition to being able to supply a large number of firefighters, smokejumpers also have a significant initial attack range. This summer Redding dispatched smokejumpers to initial attack fires in Oregon, Washington and Nevada.
2004 Statistics
Smokejumpers: 50 Jumps Award: 200 Jumps Award:
Rookies:
Aircraft: Sherpa, DC-3TP (Rhoades) 100 Jumps Award: 250 Jumps Award:
Pilots: Bob Coward, Eric Lancaster 500 Jumps Award:
Rick Haagenson, Wendy Gima
Dan Johnson, David Seest,
Eric Petersen, Travis Brown
Region Three Detail: Dan Hernandez, Don Graham, Tye Erwin, Chris Gunter, Kevin Maier
Base Manager: Don Sand
Operations Foreman: Steve Murphy
Training Foreman: Bob Bente
Loft Foreman: Tim Quigley
2004
Region 5 Smokejumpers
BANDUCCI, Dean Smokejumper
BENTE, Robert Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Training)
CASEY, John Smokejumper Squad Leader
CLIFTON, Ryan Smokejumper
COATS, Dan Smokejumper
DORNBERGER, Kyle Smokejumper
EDWARDS, Caleb Smokejumper
ERWIN, Tye Smokejumper
FASHANO, Greg Smokejumper Squad Leader
FORTHOFER, Joe Smokejumper Trainee
FRANKE, Steve Smokejumper Captain
GONZALEZ, Jesse Smokejumper
GONZALEZ, Richard Smokejumper Squad Leader
GRAHAM, Don Smokejumper
GUNTER, Chris Smokejumper
HERNANDEZ, Dan Smokejumper Captain
HESSE, Nathan Smokejumper
HOKANSON, Mitch Smokejumper
HORN, Justin Smokejumper
JOHNSON, Dave Smokejumper
JOHNSON, Karl Smokejumper
JOYCE, Christopher Smokejumper
KELLOGG, Rachell Smokejumper Trainee
KVISLER, Brian Smokejumper
LAUBER, Adam Smokejumper Squad Leader
LEE, Donovan Smokejumper
MAIER, Kevin Smokejumper
MARQUEZ, Felipe Smokejumper
MATHIESEN, Josh Smokejumper Captain
McGAVREN, Ed Smokejumper
MOORE, Annette Smokejumper Clerk
MUNK, Cheveyo Smokejumper Trainee
MURPHY, Steve Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Operations)
PONTES, Brian Smokejumper
QUIGLEY, Tim Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Loft)
RALSTON, Shane Smokejumper
RAMSEY, Casey Smokejumper
RATAJ, Rick Smokejumper
REEVES, Dylan Smokejumper
SAND, Don Smokejumper Base Manager
SCHUETTE, Brad Smokejumper Trainee
SCHULTZ, Geoff Smokejumper
SMITH, Scott, Smokejumper
SOTELA, Hernan Smokejumper Captain
SPENCE, Gerald Smokejumper Captain
THOMSON, Darby Smokejumper Trainee
VOSHALL, Josh Smokejumper
2005
Fire activity was moderate throughout Region Five this past season. Smokejumpers parachuted to 22 fires for a total of 132 fire jumps in the Region this year. Statistically this was a below average year for both fires and number of jumpers on fires. Even though fire activity was low, the smokejumper program made significant contributions on several incidents this year.
The first fire jump in the region this year was June 20th on the San Bernardino National Forest. The last of the year was October 20th on the Mendocino National Forest. In this four month period smokejumpers were utilized on seven National Forests within the Region and one CDF Ranger Unit. Although a significant portion of smokejumper activity occurred in the Northern GACC, it is worth mentioning that 38 jumpers staffed fires in the Southern Geographic Area. The San Bernardino National Forest hosted smokejumpers at the Air Tanker Base again this summer and the jumpers operated a self sufficient satellite base from these facilities. Smokejumpers were utilized on three fires on the forest as well as several reconnaissance missions.
Two fires were initial attacked in the John Muir Wilderness of the Sierra National Forest with ten jumpers each. The mobility of the smokejumper resource enabled the Rattle Fire to be initial attacked out of Redding and the Warm Fire was initial attacked out of the San Bernardino satellite base. The smokejumpers remained on the incidents through the control phase and were praised for their self sufficiency and procedural approach in the suppression of these incidents.
A milestone came for the smokejumper unit this summer when three smokejumpers parachuted to the Wooley fire on the Klamath National Forest. This was significant not because jumpers were being used in the Wooley Creek drainage, this has been done many times over the years, but because jumpers were being brought in to help manage a Fire Use Incident for the first time in Region 5. The jumpers spent nine days on the incident and filled many positions including FEMO, DIVS and FALC. Smokejumpers went ground action to several other Fire Use assignments during the year. The majority of the Fire Use assignments were in the Lassen National Park.
Chris Gunter, Smokejumper rookie class of 2001, passed away in December of 2005. Chris was an energetic young man with unlimited potential. The Region 5 smokejumpers lost a solid smokejumper and friend this year and will grieve this unfortunate event for a long time. .
2005 Statistics
Smokejumpers: 50 Jumps Award: 100 Jumps Award:
Rookies:
Aircraft: C-23A Shorts Sherpa 200 Jumps Award:
Douglas DC-3T
250 Jumps Award:
Pilots: Bob Coward, Eric Lancaster 500 Jumps Award:
Rick Haagenson, Wendy Gima
Dan Johnson, David Seest,
Travis Brown
Region Three Detail:
Base Manager: Don Sand
Operations Foreman: Steve Murphy
Training Foreman: Bob Bente
Loft Foreman: Tim Quigley
2005
Region 5 Smokejumpers
BANDUCCI, Dean Smokejumper
BENTE, Robert Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Training)
CASEY, John Smokejumper Squad Leader
CLIFTON, Ryan Smokejumper
COATS, Dan Smokejumper
DIMACULANGAN, Leonard Smokejumper Trainee
DORNBERGER, Kyle Smokejumper
EDWARDS, Caleb Smokejumper
ERWIN, Tye Smokejumper
FASHANO, Greg Smokejumper Squad Leader
FISCHER, Isaiah Smokejumper Trainee
FORTHOFER, Joe Smokejumper
GONZALEZ, Richard Smokejumper Squad Leader
GRAHAM, Don Smokejumper
GUNTER, Chris Smokejumper
HERBERT, Tony Smokejumper Trainee
HERNANDEZ, Dan Smokejumper Captain
HESSE, Nathan Smokejumper
HOKANSON, Mitch Smokejumper
HORN, Justin Smokejumper
JOHNSON, Dave Smokejumper
KELLOGG, Rachell Smokejumper
KVISLER, Brian Smokejumper
LAUBER, Adam Smokejumper Squad Leader
LEE, Donovan Smokejumper
MATHIESEN, Josh Smokejumper Captain
McGAVREN, Ed Smokejumper
MOORE, Annette Smokejumper Clerk
MURPHY, Steve Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Operations)
PONTES, Brian Smokejumper
POWELL, Doug Smokejumper Trainee
QUIGLEY, Tim Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Loft)
RALSTON, Shane Smokejumper
RAMSEY, Casey Smokejumper
RATAJ, Rick Smokejumper
REEVES, Dylan Smokejumper
SAND, Don Smokejumper Base Manager
SCHUETTE, Brad Smokejumper
SMITH, Scott Smokejumper
SOTELA, Hernan Smokejumper Captain
SPENCE, Gerald Smokejumper Captain
THOMPSON, Josh Smokejumper
THOMSON, Darby Smokejumper
VOSHALL, Josh Smokejumper
WHEELER, Derek Smokejumper Trainee
2006
Smokejumper activity in Region Five was record breaking in 2006. Smokejumpers parachuted to 116 fires for a total of 476 fire jumps. The 116 fires broke the old record of 95 fires which was set in 1999. Smokejumpers accomplished a great deal in 2006 and were invaluable in helping the Region cope with the above average fire season.
The first fire jump in the region was June 24th on the Inyo National Forest. The last of the year was September 24th on the Plumas National Forest. In this three month period smokejumpers were utilized on 14 National Forests and one National Recreation area within the Region. Although smokejumper activity occurred in a relatively short timeframe compared to the overall fire season, there were intense periods of heavy initial attack. The following are three such examples:
From June 26th through July 1st, 113 smokejumpers were dropped on 31 fires covering four National Forests. The fires were located on the Plumas, Modoc, Shasta-Trinity, and Mendocino National Forests. During this six day period over 40 boosters were called in from out of region to assist in the efforts. In addition, three Para-Cargo re-supply orders were filled for the Shasta-Trinity and Mendocino National Forests.
From July 22nd through July 27th, 66 smokejumpers were dropped on 15 fires covering four National Forests. These fires were spread between the San Bernardino, Los Padres, Sierra, Mendocino and Shasta-Trinity National Forests. Additionally, three loads of smokejumpers flew initial attack out of Region One and Four and dropped 24 jumpers on the Klamath and Six Rivers National Forests.
From August 5th through August 10th, 109 smokejumpers were dropped on 32 fires. These fires were spread between the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, Shasta-Trinity, Klamath, and Six Rivers National Forest’s. Additionally, 8 smokejumpers flew initial attack from the Western Great Basin and staffed a fire in the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area.
In addition to providing firefighters to the above incidents, smokejumpers also provided the necessary leadership. Out of the 116 fires smokejumpers staffed in 2006, a smokejumper was the incident commander on 92 of these fires. Additionally, smokejumpers demonstrated the commitment and ability to stay until the end by calling 75 of these fires out.
The short duration yet high initial attack episodes illustrated above were full of success stories and significant saves. There is one significant save in particular that deserves special mention. This fire, along with many others, started during a late July lightning episode onthe Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Between July 24th and July 26th the Shasta-Trinity picked up 32 lightning fires; Smokejumpers staffed 10 of these fires with 37 people. The Bake and Oven were two of the fires that started during this period and eventually became a complex that remained uncontained until November. The Martin fire was ignited in an adjacent drainage and was staffed by eight smokejumpers at 0755 on July 24th. This fire was an “ugly” 3.5 acre fire in the North Fork of the Trinity River drainage. The fire was located on the top 1/3 of a ridge with a slope in excess of 80%.
The fuel was primarily six foot brush which was carpeted beneath a 20 year old snag patch. Containment efforts were hampered by scattered thunderstorm activity, and the overall lack of available resources. The fire was declared out on July 28th, and the eight smokejumpers were shuttled to the Bake fire where they began assisting containment efforts there.
Smokejumpers made a tremendous difference on the Martin fire both in savings to the taxpayer and exposure to firefighters. Had the eight smokejumpers not been successful the Martin Fire could just have as easily been lumped in with Bake and Oven fires which cost about 62 million to suppress and charred approximately 100,414 acres.
Again this year smokejumpers were dropped on a Fire Use Incident. On July 3rd, four smokejumpers parachuted to the Caribou WFU, Klamath National Forest. Upon arrival the fire was 1.9 acres, and the jumpers managed the incident for 12 days seeing it progress to 50 acres. The smokejumpers managed the incident with an ICT4 and three Fire Effects Monitors. The ability to remain self sufficient and adapt to the ever changing needs of the evolving fire were highly valued by District Fire Management personnel.
The Region 5 Smokejumpers set up spike base operations at the San Bernardino Air Attack Base on four separate occasions. A total of twenty fires were jumped, deploying seventy five smokejumpers on six National Forests. The smokejumpers maintained a presence at the base for a total of 57 days. Smokejumper aircraft also provided a platform for 18 flight hours of forest reconnaissance. Two fires were staffed during these recon flights.
Of the twelve fires jumped on the San Bernardino National Forest, three of these should be considered “significant saves”:
Deer Fire (State Fire): July 9, 2006 - Front Country District
With only 3 smokejumpers available due to prior day’s utilization, Jumper 52 was dispatched to the Millard Fire. Upon arrival, the fire appeared to be 10+ acres in rugged steep terrain. While circling the fire looking for a jump spot, the jumpers and Air Attack 509 spotted a small smoke to the southwest just starting to show open flame. A decision was made to put the smokejumpers on the new start (Deer) where they would be better utilized. The fire had great potential due to the low position on the slope and a continuous brush fuel type. If established, the fire would have threatened Snow Peak and the radio antennae equipment on it. Two SEAT’s were diverted to the Deer Fire and made accurate, helpful drops. The jumpers were deployed; the SEAT’s reloaded and returned; Helicopter 535 arrived with a bucket; and a BDF Engine arrived later to help catch this fire by a very slim margin. The final size of the fire was ¾ of an acre. This was a good example of a variety of aviation and ground resources making a significant save of Forest Land and taxpayer money. This is especially true when you consider the effects of the Millard Complex which started under similar conditions.
Palm II Fire: July 15, 2006- San Jacinto District
This lightning caused fire was detected in the early evening of July 15th in the remote Palm Canyon area. With the sun setting and darkness soon approaching, it was going to be difficult to get ground resources in before dark. After air tankers were dispatched, the Duty Officer ordered a load of smokejumpers. The air tankers made successful drops to surround most of the fire with retardant in the grass and brushy fuels. Because of darkness setting in, only two jumpers were able to jump the fire. They were the only firefighters on the fire until the next day. Working throughout the night, they were able to seal the gaps in the retardant line and keep the fire to six acres in size. Crews relieved the jumpers the next day.
Crab Fire: July 16, 2006- Mountaintop District
While finishing a fire detection flight on the San Jacinto District, Jumper 52 was diverted to an emerging lightning fire east of Lake Arrowhead near Crab Flats. Within ten minutes, the jump ship arrived and was first on scene. The fire was sized up at 5+ acres and was burning in remnants of the old Willow Fire. The prevailing fuel type was grass with fire-killed slash and brush and a moderate to fast rate of spread was observed. The eight smokejumpers were dropped initially and then both cargo and airtanker drops occurred simultaneously. This was essential in catching this fire as it began to pick up intensity in the flashy fuels. With accurate retardant and helicopter bucket drops, the jumpers and two local engine crews were able to contain the fire to less than ten acres.
2006 Statistics
Smokejumpers: thirty-eight 50 Jumps Award: 200 Jumps Award:
Rookies: four
Aircraft: C-23A Shorts Sherpa 100 Jumps Award: 250 Jumps Award:
Dornier Josh Mathiesen
550 Jumps Award:
Tim Quigley
Pilots: John Lesnik, John Blumm
Rick Haagenson, Dave Spliethof
Dan Johnson,
Region Three Detail:
Rico Gonzalez
Josh Voshall
Caleb Edwards
Base Manager: Don Sand
Operations Foreman: Steve Murphy
Training Foreman: Bob Bente
Loft Foreman: Tim Quigley
2006
Region 5 Smokejumpers
BANDUCCI, Dean Smokejumper
BENTE, Robert Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Training)
CASEY, John Smokejumper Captain
DORNBERGER, Kyle Smokejumper
EDWARDS, Caleb Smokejumper
FASHANO, Greg Smokejumper Squad Leader
FISCHER, Isaiah Smokejumper
GOMEZ, Luis Smokejumper Captain
GONZALEZ, Richard Smokejumper Squad Leader
GRAHAM, Don Smokejumper
HERBERT, Tony Smokejumper
HERNANDEZ, Dan Smokejumper Captain
HESSE, Nathan Smokejumper
HINES, Sean Smokejumper Trainee
HOKANSON, Mitch Smokejumper
JOHNSON, Dave Smokejumper
KVISLER, Brian Smokejumper
LAUBER, Adam Smokejumper Squad Leader
LEE, Donovan Smokejumper
MATHIESEN, Josh Smokejumper Captain
McGAVREN, Ed Smokejumper
MOORE, Annette Smokejumper Clerk
MOSCHETTI, Brad Smokejumper Trainee
MURPHY, Steve Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Operations)
PONTES, Brian Smokejumper
QUIGLEY, Tim Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Loft)
RALSTON, Shane Smokejumper
RAMSEY, Casey Smokejumper
RATAJ, Rick Smokejumper
REEVES, Dylan Smokejumper
ROWAN, Jesse Smokejumper Trainee
SAND, Don Smokejumper Base Manager
SCHUETTE, Brad Smokejumper
SMITH, Scott Smokejumper
SPENCE, Gerald Smokejumper Captain
THOMSON, Darby Smokejumper
URBANI, Mark Smokejumper Trainee
VOSHALL, Josh Smokejumper
WHEELER, Derek Smokejumper
2007 History
Smokejumper activity in Region 5 was above average in 2007. Smokejumpers parachuted to 68 fires for a total of 351 fire jumps. Smokejumpers were utilized throughout the Region and broke new ground this year with the first ever fire jump on the Angeles National Forest. Smokejumpers accomplished a great deal in 2007 and were invaluable to the Region in meeting its responsibility to protect life and property.
A mild winter and dry spring produced conditions susceptible to an early fire season. As in years past, 20 smokejumpers were refreshed and ready to go by April 1st. Immediately some of these smokejumpers were dispatched to Region 8 for fire suppression and RX assignments. The remaining jumpers were available within Region 5 and saw the first smokejumper activity on May 9th with a fire jump on the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. From this point forward, the season progressed at a moderate pace with smokejumpers being utilized on 13 National Forests, one CDF Ranger Unit, and the Hoopa Valley Indian Reservation.
Region 5 was staffed with 40 smokejumpers for the 2007 fire season. Again this year two aircraft were utilized (Sherpa and Dornier) to deliver firefighters throughout the Region. These aircraft allowed significant flexibility for land managers because of their mobility and payload (utilizing both aircraft do deliver up to 18 firefighters at a range of nearly 450 nautical miles).
Smokejumpers have proven to be invaluable during heavy periods of initial attack. In 2007 two such episodes occurred. From July 7th through July 13th, 79 smokejumpers were utilized on 14 separate incidents. These fires were spread between seven National Forests divided between the North and South zones of California’s geographic area. The smokejumper program demonstrated its speed and mobility during this episode and in one instance demobed a fire on the Inyo National Forest and subsequently flew directly to the Six Rivers national Forest and staffed another fire with all 8 jumpers on board.
A more significant episode of heavy initial attack occurred between August 26th and September 1st. During this seven day period 95 smokejumpers were utilized on 22 separate incidents covering eight National Forests. Of particular note, were nine fires staffed in south zone during this period on the San Bernardino, Sequoia, and Sierra National Forests.
During both of these episodes, Western Great Basin provided initial attack loads of smokejumpers to support new incidents. These numbers do not show up in Region 5 year end statistics, but are significant because five additional loads of smokejumpers were provided to the region in a time of critical need. This demonstrates the utility of the smokejumper program as a national resource with firm standard operating procedures that allow a seamless transition across geographic boundaries.
2007 Region 5 Smokejumper Roster
BANDUCCI, Dean Smokejumper
BENTE, Robert Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Training)
CASEY, John Smokejumper Captain
DORNBERGER, Kyle Smokejumper
EDWARDS, Caleb Smokejumper
FASHANO, Greg Smokejumper Squad Leader
FISCHER, Isaiah Smokejumper
GOMEZ, Luis Smokejumper Captain
GONZALEZ, Richard Smokejumper Squad Leader
GRAHAM, Don Smokejumper
GRAYDEN, Stephen Smokejumper Trainee
HERBERT, Tony Smokejumper
HERNANDEZ, Dan Smokejumper Captain
HINES, Sean Smokejumper
HOKANSON, Mitch Smokejumper
JOHNSON, Dave Smokejumper
KRAMER, Derek Smokejumper Trainee
KVISLER, Brian Smokejumper
LEE, Donovan Smokejumper
LIGHTNER, Dorsey Smokejumper
MATHIESEN, Josh Smokejumper Captain
MCKINLEY, Travis Smokejumper Trainee
MOORE, Annette Smokejumper Clerk
MOSCHETTI, Brad Smokejumper
MURPHY, Steve Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Operations)
ORTEGA, Uriel Smokejumper Trainee
OSTROM, Nicholas Smokejumper Trainee
PONTES, Brian Smokejumper
QUIGLEY, Tim Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Loft)
RALSTON, Shane Smokejumper
RATAJ, Rick Smokejumper
REEVES, Dylan Smokejumper
ROWAN, Jesse Smokejumper
SAND, Don Smokejumper Base Manager
SCHUETTE, Brad Smokejumper
SMITH, Scott Smokejumper
2008 History
It should be no surprise that the California Smokejumpers had a record breaking year in 2008. In fact one might be surprised if we didn’t. The lightning storm that occurred during the period between June 20th and June 21st produced over 5,000 lightning strikes. From these strikes over1, 000 fires were reported. Priorities were set, and smokejumpers were utilized on fires with the greatest potential. Much of this utilization came with great success. As the season progressed and eventually came to an end on October 25th, Smokejumpers parachuted to 101 fires totaling 616 fire jumps.
The significance of this year does not lie solely in the fact that smokejumper utilization was the highest it has ever been inside Region 5. The significance lies in how this record was accomplished and the circumstances for which it was achieved. Without a doubt the highlight of this year’s success is the fact that all Region 5 smokejumpers had zero parachute related injuries. Considering all of the exposure we encountered, this was quite an achievement.
Notes:
- During the month long period from June 20th to July 20th, 431 smokejumpers were delivered to 41 fires within Region 5. To put this into perspective, we put more Smokejumpers on fires in a month than we normally do during an entire season.
- At one point during the 30 day period mentioned above, there were three 30-person smokejumper fires deployed simultaneously. These fires were the Star Fire (Sierra National Forest), the Stuart Fire (Shasta- Trinity National Forest) and the Soda Springs Fire (Lassen National Forest).
- The National Smokejumper program supported Region 5 by providing 110 additional smokejumpers bolstering our numbers to 147. Additionally, four loads of smokejumpers flew initial attack from out of Region to fires on the Shasta-Trinity, Sierra, and Stanislaus National Forests.
- On July 17, President George W. Bush visited Redding to receive a briefing on the fire situation and view first hand some of the damage caused by the numerous fires burning in the area. The President spent about twenty minutes with the smokejumpers and walked through the parachute loft shaking hands with every smokejumper on duty that day. The President was flanked by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, California State Senator Diane Feinstein, and California Congressman Wally Herger. The president seemed genuinely interested in the work the smokejumpers performed and was appreciative of their dedication and efforts in protecting America’s Natural Resources.
Aircraft and Staffing
There were 37 smokejumpers assigned to California for the 2008 season. Additionally, we had one long term detailer from Region 1 to help bolster the overall numbers. Smokejumper staffing was slightly below our historical average of 40. In the last 10 years smokejumper utilization within region has increased by about 100 fire jumps per year over the previous decade and the length of fire season is longer than that of any other smokejumper base. Yet the number of nationally funded smokejumpers remains the same.
The California Smokejumpers were supported by two aircraft for the 2008 season. A Dornier (N257MC) on a ninety day contract from Bighorn Airways Inc., and a Forest Service owned C-23A Shorts Sherpa (N175Z). Aircraft from other bases provided additional coverage as fire activity dictated during the season.
2008 Region 5 Smokejumper Roster
AVILLA, Greg Smokejumper Trainee
BENTE, Robert Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Training)
CASEY, John Smokejumper Captain
DIETZ, Glenn Smokejumper Trainee
DORNBERGER, Kyle Smokejumper (Detailed from WYS)
EDWARDS, Caleb Smokejumper
FASHANO, Greg Smokejumper Squad Leader
FOREMAN, Jason Smokejumper Trainee
GOMEZ, Luis Smokejumper Training Assistant
GONZALEZ, Richard Smokejumper Squad Leader
GRAHAM, Don Smokejumper
GRAYDEN, Stephen Smokejumper
HERBERT, Tony Smokejumper
HERNANDEZ, Dan Smokejumper Loft Assistant
HINES, Sean Smokejumper
HOKANSON, Mitch Smokejumper
JOHNSON, Dave Smokejumper
KRAMER, Derek Smokejumper
KVISLER, Brian Smokejumper
LEE, Donovan Smokejumper
LIGHTNER, Dorsey Smokejumper
MATHIESEN, Josh Smokejumper Operations Assistant
MOORE, Annette Smokejumper Clerk
MOSCHETTI, Brad Smokejumper
MURPHY, Steve Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Operations)
ORSER, Shane Smokejumper Trainee
PONTES, Brian Smokejumper
QUIGLEY, Tim Smokejumper Battalion Chief (Loft)
RALSTON, Shane Smokejumper (Transferred to GAC)
RATAJ, Rick Smokejumper
REEVES, Dylan Smokejumper
ROWAN, Jesse Smokejumper (Left for Reno FD)
SAND, Don Smokejumper Base Manager
SANKEY, Jesse Smokejumper Trainee
SCHUETTE, Brad Smokejumper
SMITH, Scott Smokejumper SPENCE, Gerald Smokejumper Captain
TRAUB, Chance Smokejumper Trainee
WHEELER, Derek Smokejumper
WILEY, Ira Smokejumper