TKC Shareholder & long-time wildfire fighter James Gregory, Sr. recently passed his fire fighter pack test at age 70.

James Gregory, Sr., a TKC Shareholder and resident of Kalskag, has represented our region and served as a firefighter along the Middle Kuskokwim, across the state, and in the lower 48 for more than 50 years. Recently, at the age of 70, he passed his pack test to be a firefighter once again!

James started firefighting in 1971. He was inspired to pursue firefighting after hearing the stories shared by his dad, older brother, and other men he knew who fought fires. He was taught how to be a firefighter by one of the men who was just three years older than him at the time. 

Wildland firefighters often perform rigorous tasks, such as heavy lifting, walking, running, climbing, jumping, flying in both helicopters and planes, working in remote locations, at high altitudes, and for long hours, being without sleep and food for extended periods of time, etc. To minimize the risk of getting fatigued or injured during a job, they must be medically and physically fit. Each year, wildland firefighters are required to complete a physical fitness test, also known as a pack test. This test consists of a 3-mile walk over level terrain in 45 minutes or less while carrying a 45-pound pack. James Gregory, Sr. has successfully completed his pack test for decades.

Being a firefighter can be challenging both physically and mentally. James has to leave his home and family, sometimes for weeks or months at a time. When asked what keeps him going when he’s missing home he said, “When we are out firefighting, we are so busy and focused on our work. It’s a dangerous job that we need to keep focused on the task at hand. Even when we think of home and our families, we know that we need to keep our minds focused on the task at hand.”

As dangerous and difficult as the job can be, James describes the experience of being a firefighter as exciting and fulfilling. He says it is fun meeting new firefighters each year and to see and experience new places and different people. 

James also emphasizes the importance of having a good crew and working together. While out firefighting, your crew is like a family and while at camp, your crew is like a household. You have to listen to each other, support each other, and take care of each other.

Just as James was inspired by the firefighters who came before him, he hopes to encourage and inspire younger individuals to pursue firefighting, too. “It feels good to see young firefighters going out and being out there for the first time. It’s exciting to see them learning how to firefight, especially the younger generations.”

For those curious about becoming a firefighter themselves, here is some advice from James, “If they want to go out firefighting it’s fun and yes, sometimes it can be hard work; they could be determined if they want to keep going firefighting. Some want to quit but it’s worth it.”

James Gregory, Sr. is a great example of what it means to be a good steward of our land. His work fighting wildfires helps to ensure our land and resources can provide not only for our people today, but for generations to come. Quyana, James, for all your hard work, commitment, and the sacrifices you’ve made to serve our communities along the Middle Kuskokwim and beyond. Congratulations on passing your most recent pack test!

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