Two More Chains

In this issue of Two More Chains, we focus on lessons gathered in 2023 and offer some specific calls to action.

In this issue of Two More Chains, we explore what it means to be a wildland firefighter by considering how we got here, what makes us unique, what makes us the same and how we can best move forward.

In this issue of Two More Chains, we invite you to study some fires you may not recall or of which you may have never heard. We also feature a first-hand account from someone who ran for their life on one of those fires.

In this issue, we offer a bit of organizational perspective and some personal perspective on some of what has happened in the decade that has passed since the Yarnell Hill Fire.

This issue explores what we learned in 2022. We share lessons and highlight ways to put the lessons into action.

This issue focuses on “Dialogue”, the third pillar of learning from “Learning in the Wildland Fire Service”. The cover story analyzes the lessons initiated by dialogue on a large fire more than a decade ago. In the “One of Our Own” feature, Heath Cota, U.S. Forest Service Branch Chief for Workforce Development, Training, and Education describes dialogue as the sensemaking part of learning.

This issue of Two More Chains explores the second pillar of learning – Opportunity. Opportunity to learn exists in just about everything we do and may hide in unexpected scenarios, like tragedy and failure. As you read, ponder how you will make the most out of the learning opportunities you encounter.

This issue of Two More Chains explores how we are all both teachers and students in the wildland fire service. Learning occurs on the fireline, at the station, on the road, and during off-duty activities. What are you teaching and what are you learning?

In this issue we share key lessons from last year through personal accounts and unique perspectives—straight from the field. We also hear from two fire folks who have taken the initiative to weave these real-life incident lessons into their training program. We like hearing about people who use the lessons. We hope you are also inspired to do so

Navigating “work/life” balance is complex and personal. This issue of Two More Chains provides perspective and insight on the difficulty of accessing harmony with fire in our lives.