WFM RD&A Participates in Mann Gulch Staff Ride

Members of the WFM RD&A participated in a facilitated Staff Ride of the Mann Gulch fire along with the NWCG Fire Behavior Subcommittee and members of the Missoula Fire Science Laboratory, May 18th.  13 firefighters lost their lives on the Mann Gulch fire, reported August 5, 1949 on the Helena National Forest.  15 smoke jumpers and 1 fire guard were caught on the steep gulch slopes when the fire spotted across the drainage below them.  1 fire fighter (Crew Boss Wag Dodge) survived by lying in the ashes of a fire he set in advance of the main fire (an unfamiliar technique at the time).  2 others survived by running to the top of the ridge and taking refuge in the rocky scree slopes on the other side.  Sadly the remaining 13 died as they tried to run from the fire.  The tragedy was a catalyst that set in motion many changes in fire management and research.  The insight gained from walking in the steps of the men that died at Mann Gulch provide powerful lessons in crew dynamics, the fire environment, and fire behavior still today.