Author Archives: kencarlton

After finding bear poop under the tail boom, two days in a row, I’ve started packing my 44 Mag. Ruger Red Hawk . This is a 6 inch, Stainless Steel, double action revolver. I had it in my helmet bag … Continue reading →

Sunday June 24th we flew from Trimmer Ca. to South Lake Tahoe. The Angora Fire burned 259 homes and many other out buildings. I flew about seven hours and watched 3100 acres burn near Lake Tahoe, I was dipping out … Continue reading →

High in the Sierra Mountains is a small Lilly Pond, only a few humans have ever seen it. Even the animals have a hard time reaching it, due the solid rock cliffs and 9,500 ft altitude. It has no name, … Continue reading →

One day this year I finally learned how to long line. It has taken the last 30 or so years, slow learner you say? You’d be right. Over the last 30 years I’ve managed to pass many a check ride … Continue reading →

The first order of business for fire season 2004 was to go get the helicopter, something a little less complicated than cooking one of my wife’s gourmet dinners, and a whole lot more complicated than cooking one of my dinners … Continue reading →

When I was in high school there was a girl who, although somewhat over weight, was very popular with the boys. Her name was Pat, and although I never dated her, I heard she was a wonderful dancer. It seems … Continue reading →

Several people have asked me lately if flying on fires is “pretty tame” after flying a helicopter in combat operations in Viet Nam. I’ve thought about it a bit, and I have to say “It’s incredibly similar!” Ever present in both … Continue reading →

As you well know this year has been an active and dangerous fire season. Four USFS Fire Fighters were killed in Washington and two CDF pilots killed in California. The only difference in combat helicopter flying and helicopters fighting fire … Continue reading →