When was the last time you thanked a national park ranger?
It's commonplace, and good manners, of course, to thank someone when they help us in time of need. Yet sometimes we take things and actions for granted and go on our way. Rangers in the National Park System do big things, such as saving lives during search-and-rescue missions, and little things, such as offering directions, answering questions, and lending a helping hand when you most need it. They show up for interpretive programs, work late to provide insightful campfire programs, and spend days and at times weeks in the backcountry on patrol or conducting research.
Do you recall ever thanking them?
On July 29 four years ago a young ranger in Rocky Mountain National Park died in a fall while on a backcountry patrol. That he lost his life demonstrated just how dangerous life can be as a park ranger. His loss resonated with folks in Colorado, at the Rocky Mountain National Park Forums, specifically. To honor Ranger Christensen, and all other rangers in Rocky Mountain National Park, they decided to mark every July 29 as "Thank a Ranger Day."
It's a pretty simple idea, but one that would be great to be spread across the entire park system. So if you're in a park on the 29th of this month, take a minute to thank a ranger. They'll no doubt appreciate it.
Comments
Kurt, this something that I have advocated for years, especially when the NPS had good stock of rangers (and still do) that went unrecognized for their heroic efforts and there conscientious examples of beyond the pale of duty. Yes, part of the job but give credit due to it's most noblest. The national parks still has good stock of young talent that will always carry the day and the future of the parks. No doubt...despite what the skeptics and doomsayers might think about the national parks.
Absolutely! In all of our National Park travels we have come across some outstanding rangers. I always make a point to write to the park superintendent praising these individuals. They deserve our thanks!!
Thankfully I've never needed a ranger in an emergency situation, but I do appreciate that they're available. My encounters with rangers have been educational, and that makes any park visit better. I'm sure I thanked him at the time, but I'll say so again here: I still remember the ranger guide on our trip to Mesa Verde in August 2006. Ranger Mitch. In his words:
"Human intelligence hasn't changed. The only thing that's different is our technology. You came here in a car today. Good for you. They lived 700 years without a war. Good for them."
Thank you Ranger Mitch for a memorable experience.
In my deepest memory, remembering Carl Sharsmith, who had the fineness qualities of the highest standards as ranger naturalist, educator, guide and friend was a prime example of gratitude given by most folks who knew him. Under the cloak of the NPS, I'm sure there were just as many as worthy as Carl Sharsmith in gratitude...if not more.
OK, so I'll admit it here for all the world to see, I suffer from "Ranger Envy"!!
Who, in their later years, haven't said, " I sure wish I'd have been a park ranger, what a life"!! Of course that's coming from someone that has only seen the good side of their jobs. I think they are truly the unsung heros of all the parks in this great country, and a national day to thank them is way overdue. Where do I sign the petition?
At least I can thank them personally every time I come into contact with one, right?
"The world is a great book, of which they that never stir from home read only a page"--St. Augustine
I thank them everyday ! Of course I depend on them everyday for medical assistance and law enforcement. They are part of our family here at the Furnace Creek Ranch in Death Valley. A finer bunch of dedicated people you will not find than the Park Service than here in Death Valley. They are always friendly and willing to help with any situation. They give us lots of information in the morning and then save our lives in the afternoon if required. If you see a Ranger here at the Ranch stop by the General Store and offer to buy them a cup of coffee or an ice cold drink. You will be rewarded with big smiles, some of the friendliest people you will ever meet and lots of information about the Park.
I thanked all that I saw in the Smokys in June.
Who was the first National Park Service ranger to be killed in the line of duty and what park?
(By the way, I know the answer.)
I never met a National Park Service employee who took their job for the money. Many gave up much more lucrative careers to be part of the system.