Date and Location: August 5, 1949, Mann Gulch, Montana.
Conditions: Extremely hot day, 97 degrees in Helena, hotter in Mann Gulch.
Smokejumper Program: 9th year of operation, aimed at quickly reaching remote areas to combat fires.
The Incident
Initial Report: Fire reported on the south ridge of Mann Gulch.
Smokejumper Response: 16 jumpers depart from Missoula; 15 jump due to one falling ill.
Spotting and Jumping: Earl Cooley and Wag Dodge identify jump spot; cargo scattered due to high altitude drop.
Sequence of Events
Cargo Gathering: Took approximately 45 minutes, followed by a meal and preparation.
Approaching the Fire: Foreman Dodge finds James Harrison, a wilderness guard, working alone.
Fire Behavior: Unpredictable and growing rapidly, forcing quick decisions.
Escape Attempt:
Dodge attempts an escape fire to create safe ground.
Confusion among crew, many do not follow Dodge into the escape fire.
Two men, Rumsey and Sallee, survive by finding a small opening on the ridge.
Aftermath and Legacy
Casualties: 13 of 16 firefighters perish.
Impact on Fire Science:
Mann Gulch fire spurred interest in fire research.
Creation of fire science laboratories, including one in Missoula.
Development of better tools and technology for firefighters.
Emphasized the importance of understanding wildfire behavior.
Memorialization: Remembering the 13 men who lost their lives, the importance of respecting the dangers of wildfires, and valuing the preciousness of life.
Conclusion
Lessons Learned: Wildfires' unpredictability, need for preparedness, respect for nature’s power.
Moment of Silence: In memory of the fallen smokejumpers.