Veterans train to combat wildfires

Veterans train to combat wildfires
Cortez Journal
By Tobie Baker Journal staff writer
Thursday, July 18, 2013

Joshua Jones served three tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Now he’s training alongside other veterans in the San Juan National Forest.

A 25-year-old Army veteran from Ardmore, Okla., Jones is learning what it takes to fight wildfires. The career is dangerous, he admits, but his family is simply thankful their son is on American soil.

“My family is used to me being gone overseas,” Jones said. “It’s a hazardous job, but they are definitely glad that I’m here.”

Jones, who served in the Army from 2006 to 2012, is one of six former military service members currently taking part in the Veterans Fire Corps. The program aims to retrain returning veterans with the skills to protect public lands from the threat of wildfire. For Jones, working together with other veterans is the most rewarding aspect.

“We all have that common ground to stand on,” Jones said. “It’s awesome to have that camaraderie and bond that we instantly have. It’s an amazing experience for us.”

Working with Jones and the other veterans is helping Tim Stygar readjust to civilian life. After serving in the Army from 2002 to 2005, including a tour in Iraq, Stygar said he’s not only thankful he can lean on the others for support, he’s also thankful for the opportunity to one day become a hotshot firefighter. He lost his job last year.
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