While I already did a July 4h post, I wanted to highlight this photo by the LPNF taken during the Willow Fire, which I shared on social media, but not sure I did here. It has come to symbolize this year’s fire season. These men and women aren’t paid nearly enough for the work they do. We need to lobby our Representatives to increase their pay.
Recently LPNF shared a photo of Captain Justin Grunewald taking a brief break during the Willow Fire and received countless positive messages which have been shared with the firefighters. Pictured is Captain Grunewald with Mill Creek Hotshots Crew 4. The Mill Creek Hotshots are from the San Bernardino National Forest.
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Happy 4th hope it is a quiet and fire free!!!!!
In 1960, I was making the equivalent of about $21 per hour in today's money as a GS5. No overtime. No safety gear other than a hardhat. More than 24 hrs on the line. WW2 K-rations; upchuck. A nap in a paper sleeping bag with rattlesnake for a buddy, then back out for mop-up--more dangerous than the fire line in a forest.
Awesome photo. Awesome people.
Kate,
Thanks for the pictures. They certainly aren't paid what they are worth. Although I did hear on the news the other night that they have a approved a raise for them and more would get permanent status qualifying they a for benefits.
Happy 4th!!!
I have a friend whose son is on a Hotshot crew. Crazy, crazy work. They don't get paid nearly enough, especially since fire season seems to be starting earlier each year and fires seem to be more frequent.
That top picture is worth a thousand words! It's a job not for the faint of heart!
Firefighters are doing priceless work for all of god's creatures....including us humans....
Heroes.
I live near Yarnell, and knew a few of the 19 Hotshots who gave their lives 8 years ago. We will never forget the Granite Mountain Hotshots. Every year we relive the horror that struck those brave men. Our prayers go out for all men and women who are battling fires now. May they all return home safely to their families and loved ones.