August 2, 2021 - Aloha to the Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Engine Crew! These firefighters flew out from Hawai’i to help us out on the Dixie Fire. Large-scale incidents like wildland fires often bring people from across the country to work together. This week they are helping with mop up and thinning the fuels near dozer lines to improve containment lines.  

“I became a firefighter to try something different, and I liked the idea of a high-action job and a financially stable career. But now, it’s not about the action or the money. It’s about helping people and having a purpose in life.” Says Andrew Lee, the assistant crew boss, “We are a happy crew. We laugh a lot and sing. If you aren’t happy, you aren’t ready to work.”   

The crew is responsible for protecting Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and all wildlands in the Pacific Islands region. They fight fires and work on fire prevention measures by thinning fuel. They also help with search and rescues, maintain park trails, and provide fire education for students.

Thank you, mahalo iā ‘oe, for helping us out on the mainland.

Source & photo credit: U.S. Forest Service-Plumas National Forest