On the Mescalero Apache Reservation, in south central New Mexico, increased tourist traffic—along with drought conditions—resulted in increased fire damage to tribal timber. Responding to the crisis, A.B. “Bert” Shields, a ranger for thirty years on the Mescalero Reservation, sent out word in the spring of 1948 that he was organizing a trained Apache firefighting crew. “I hope to help you fellows organize into a group that will make history in the Southwest,” Shields told nineteen Apache men, most of whom were World War II veterans. In announcing his intentions, Shields told prospective firefighters to “bring along another man you think might have what it takes to be a red hatted fire eater.”
Shields' initiative to form a trained firefighting crew marked a significant step in addressing the increasing threat of wildfires exacerbated by rising tourist activity and persistent drought conditions in the region. By assembling a team of young, capable Apache men—many of whom had recently returned from their service in World War II—Shields aimed not just to combat the immediate fire hazards but also to empower the community and reshape their relationship with the land.
The recruitment call was designed to foster a sense of unity and purpose among the participants. The phrase "red hatted fire eater" conveyed both the seriousness and intensity of the work ahead, while also implying a sense of pride in taking on such a critical role. As these individuals came together, they were not just fighting fires; they were also reclaiming their heritage, showcasing the resilience and strength of the Mescalero Apache people.
Training these firefighters would involve not only techniques for combating fires but also education on forest ecology and land management, equipping them with the knowledge to act as stewards of their environment. The crew's formation represented the convergence of traditional knowledge and modern firefighting strategies, allowing the Mescalero Apache to take charge of their own destiny in battling environmental challenges.
As the program took shape, the community undoubtedly rallied around the effort, recognizing the vital role these firefighters would play in protecting their homes, livelihoods, and the natural resources that held deep cultural significance. Through teamwork and determination, they aimed to preserve their land for future generations, marking a significant chapter in both their environmental history and their ongoing relationship with the natural world.
