Wildland firefighters play a critical role in responding to wildfires. They are the ones who disappear into the wilderness for weeks at a time to stop fires from hitting too close to home and destroying the things we love. They deploy nationwide at a moment’s notice, willing to face an uncertain tomorrow. Every season, they bounce from state to state every few weeks to help tame the fiercest forces of nature.

These wildland firefighters sacrifice the everyday comforts many of us take for granted—like a warm bed, clean clothes, and a cold drink. They leave behind their spouses, children, friends, families, and lives for months at a time. Not only do these elite individuals make immense physical and mental sacrifices to fight some of the most destructive wildfires, but they also often pay out of pocket for gear and supplies needed for fire season.