Wildland Community Mourns Studebaker

Don Studebaker, retired deputy fire chief of Southern California's Cleveland National Forest and a 21-year member of National Incident Command Teams, died April 24 of a heart attack. His memorial ceremony on May 6 was attended by friends, family and an estimated 500 active-duty and retired members of the wildland firefighting community.

“Don was an icon in the wildland firefighting world,” said Bill Gabbert, IAWF executive director. “He was your prototypical fireman. After knowing him for 30 years, there is no one else that I would rather have by my side when the convection column blocks out the sun.”

Born in Seattle, Studebaker served in the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1971 as an Army Ranger Detachment specializing in infrared field surveillance and was injured when his helicopter was shot down. After his return, he served with the U.S. Forest Service until his retirement in December. He also started a company and taught classes all across the country.

In an e-mail tribute sent to the Firenet, Richard W. Halsey of the Southern California Chaparral Field Institute said, “Don was a tremendously respected and well-liked leader who will be sorely missed. He remains an inspiration to all of us.”

Studebaker received the Cal Yarbrough Award as R5 Division Chief of the Year in 2001. His acceptance speech for that award was excerpted in his memorial program:

“Listen to the people you work with. Remember, the further you are removed from the tasks on the ground, reality tends to pale and fade from your memory.

“Empower subordinates and allow them to spread their wings.

“Achieve your goals and help those that work for you achieve theirs.

“Demonstrate by being a role model. Lead by example. Show them how.”

Studebaker's family requests memorial donations be made to the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, www.wffoundation.org.