Full Description
This is the story of Civilian Public Service smokejumpers, who battled against dangerous winds, searing heat, and devastating fires from 1943 until 1945. Fewer than 300 World War II conscientious objectors served their country in this fashion, operating out of CPS bases in Montana, Idaho, and Oregon. But that small band of men helped to keep alive Forest Service operations in the Pacific Northwest and thus sustained a program to fight potentially crippling fires. When the war ended, CPS smokejumpers, like millions of World War II combat soldiers, were "ushered out" of wartime service. Some, like many returning GIs, encountered difficulties in adjusting to civilian life. Nevertheless, the one-time smokejumpers often went on to make other remarkable contributions to their communities, their nation, and the world.
Contents
Table of Contents
Preface
Conscientious Objection
1. The Reunion
2. The Originator: Philip B. Stanley
3. The Director: Roy E. Wenger
4. The Committed: Oliver Petty
5. The Methodist: T. Richard "Dick" Flaharty
6. The Academic: Gregg Phifer
7. The Three-Timer: Earl Schmidt
8. A Man of God: Lee Hebel
9. The Flying Pastor: Alan Inglis
10. The Carpenter: Wilmer Carlesen
11. The Actor: Joe Coffin
12. From the Disciples of Christ to Non-Belief: George S. Leavitt
13. A Kindred Spirit: Tedford Lewis
14. The Rebel Looking Northward: Roy Piepenburg
15. The Resister: Norman Moody
16. The Quaker: Robert H. Painter
17. The Mennonite: James R. Brunk
18. Montana's Native Son: David V. Kauffman
Denouement
Chapter Notes
Bibliography
Index
