On July 2nd, Horseshoe Meadow Crew 3 experienced a heartbreaking incident involving one of our own—Armando De La Rosa, acting saw boss, while working on the Caroline Incident, a lightning-caused fire in the Klamath National Forest.

On that day, Crew 3 was constructing underslung line through steep, rugged terrain. Armando, acting saw boss, was scouting ahead. While directing saw teams and ensuring the safety of his brothers tragedy struck the crew. A heavy, burned, dead and down tree became weak and rolled downhill, striking Armando in the knee.

The impact left him with two lateral fractures to his tibia and complete tears to his ACL, MCL, and PCL. Since that day, Armando has endured multiple surgeries and faces a long, difficult road to recovery.

Armando is not just a crewmember—he’s our brother, our friend, and a vital part of who we are. His strength, heart, and commitment to the job inspire everyone. On behalf of Armando and Horseshoe Meadow Crew 3, we humbly ask for any support you can offer to help our brother during this challenging time. Unfortunately he hasn’t received any compensation since his incident. Every donation, no matter the amount, helps lighten his load and reminds him that he’s not walking this road alone.