The Six Rivers National Forest is proud to announce Jacob Shuler as the 2022 Firefighter of the Year and recipient of the “Dale A. Mendes Award”. Shuler is a Fuels Technician on the Orleans and Ukonom Ranger District and is known for his dedication, professionalism, and integrity.
During 2022 Shuler, was an integral part of the planning and implementation of a successful season of prescribed fire on the district and assisted in coordinating the first understory burn in the region. While supporting the fire and fuels program on the district he also pursued the Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS or drone) program and became one of the only qualified UAS pilots for the entire southwestern region of the U.S. Forest Service.
“Jacob’s commitment to excellence and dedication shows in his performance every day at work,” said Gordon Meyer, Orleans and Ukonom District Fire Management Officer, “Not only is he focused on his own growth and development, but he also makes it a priority to help train and mentor others within the fuels program as well.”
This annual award recognizes employees who work within wildland fire and consistently demonstrate the values that define a firefighting professional, including superior quality of work, outstanding work ethic, individual improvement, physical fitness, and leadership ability.
These are all characteristics that Dale A. Mendes represented.