85 Years of Smokejumpers: Missoula Hosts National Firefighter Reunion

This summer there are going to be some visitors to Montana that we should all greet with open arms. They are some of the bravest, toughest men and women you will ever meet in your lifetime. They are smokejumpers.

85th Smokejumper Reunion In Missoula

Missoula is the location for a smokejumper reunion honoring 85 years of this elite crew of firefighters. The event is scheduled for June 20-22 with most of the events being held on the University of Montana campus.

Outside of the military, I haven't met a tougher group of people. Full disclosure, my brother spent the majority of his firefighting career as a smokejumper based out of Missoula. If you ever want to hear some amazing stories just talk to a smokejumper.

Read More: Montana News Roundup: Fed Fire Cuts Don't Worry Gianforte

Read More: Firefighting Legends: Missoula Crew Gets National Praise

The other day we were talking about what to do if you only had one day in Missoula. Something people should consider when they have out of state visitors is the Missoula Smokejumper Visitor Center.

Read More: If You Had One Day to Spend In Missoula, What Would You Do? We Asked Missoula Residents

There are normally only about 320 smokejumpers working for the Forest Service at any given time. Out of those there are about 70 that work out of the Missoula Smokejumper Base. This summer there may be jumpers from around the world coming to town to honor those that have been a part of this elite firefighting crew over the almost one hundred years.

To all those that have served over the years jumping from airplanes, fighting fires, sleeping on the ground, and working to keep us safe, I thank you for your service and hope you enjoy the reunion.