I like this way more than the supertanker.
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Most of the general public have never fully read one. They’ve got to keep up kayfabe to the public by making it sound like it’s never been done before. Some of these PR people must have been pro wrestling promoters in a past life.
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Ok. That was funny
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Regarding physical fitness, when orders like this go to NG units, only soldiers with current passing PT test are allowed to go on orders. Prior to getting getting out of the guard my unit was activated for TF Rattlesnake three years in a row. The first year our need was cancelled during our training at Camp Roberts but we still completed it in the event we were needed later in the year. The two following years we were activated and after completing training again were sent out for 28 days. Yes we did mop up work mostly but everyone truly enjoyed the physical aspect of hauling hose lay off the hill all day as well as just being out on fires. “Embrace the suck” is the best motto I can take away from my experience with TFR. Obviously the equipment is already purchased for TF Blaze as well as other OES equipment that is under staffed. I see this as a great way to bring the readiness of the OES equipment up but also getting another group of people who enjoy this type of work an opportunity to help accomplish the overall mission in the way they are able to.
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As potential STEN for these units, do any of these leaders have ENGB qualification? If not, what are we doing as an organization?
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They do have Engine boss certs. See previous post about qualifications. If you want to make a difference, they’re recruiting.
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I enjoy the passion that everyone is displaying in this thread. I command Team Blaze. I am not going to defend against every misinformed post here…. But here are some real basic facts:
We are NOT the National Guard, we are part of the California State Guard and not connected to Task Force Rattlesnake.
Everyone on the fire line has completed the NWCG OR CSFM appropriate courses for their position.
This is our second season. We spent time on the Dixie and every major fire this year as a type II Handcrew.
We have been training for the engine mission for 11 months.
We have 125 dedicated, well trained Soldiers who joined the unit specifically to be Wildland Firefighters. We also are trained in SAR. This is what we do.
We have several career firefighters and CSFM instructors leading our training program.
Anyone who is genuinely interested in more information should contact me directly.
This is a GREAT thing for the State.
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Thank you so much for responding! The information is great! I really appreciate it and Ty for your service and thank you to your team!
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Thanks! The fact that people care is a good thing. You know what they say….
Firefighters hate two things-
When things change and when they stay the same!
I know this is new and unusual. We are the first of our type. I am happy to reply to any respectful questions.
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The difference is getting slimmer these days. 
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Thank You and your crews for helping protect the people of California
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Awesome. Glad to hear and thank you for your service. Be safe and see you out there
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Great news. I appreciate the update on how the program works.
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Great discussion! Thanks everyone!
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