Farwell, Roxanne

Abstract

Aubrey Garber describes his serving as a smokejumper during World War Two because of his conscientious objector status. He talks about the training and the Japanese fire bomb threat. Garber also recalls designing the smokejumpers emblem, working a lookout after breaking his hand, and surveying in Oregon. He shares his experiences working in the backcountry.

Abstract

David Flaccus describes his experiences as a smokejumper during World War Two from 1943 through 1945 through the Civilian Public Service program (CPS). He discusses training at Seeley Lake, Montana, fire jumps in Idaho, the financial problems experienced by the conscientious objectors, and the moral obligation they felt to succeed as smokejumpers.

Abstract

Dr. Roy Wenger describes his experiences as director of the Mennonite Central Committee’s Civilian Public Service (CPS) Camp 103 at Seeley Lake and Nine Mile, Montana. He talks about logistical problems in the camp, including keeping the base supplied. Wenger also discusses the relationship between the conscientious objectors and Forest Service personnel and local communities.

Abstract Wilmer Carlsen discusses joining the smokejumpers under the Civilian Public Service program (CPS) in 1943 because he was a conscientious objector during World War Two. He describes his experiences as a smokejumper, including the fires he worked, and his relationships with regular Forest Service employees, as well as other religiously-affiliated conscientious objectors. Carlsen recalls his training, as well as the duties to which he was assigned in the off-season, including cooking and...