Hi,
Just curious how many first responders and veterans we might have on here in Southern California?

Also is anyone aware of any organizations in Southern California that host some trail rides for veterans and first responders to get together?

I know a lot of first responders and veterans have 4x4s, and I think it would be a healthy outlet to do some trail rides if not camping trips or combo shooting and trail riding.

I no longer have a belt rig for difficult trails, only a bone stock 2016 TRDP… but would like to eventually get some sliders, skids, bumpers and a small lift to be able to do Moderate trails. If there are any Los Angeles shops that are first responders and veteran friendly please let me know.

I’m a retired cop that now does full time primarily police chaplaincy, peer support and wellness advocacy. But I also do some work with fire as well still go shooting with veterans transitioning out of the military with Covered6 (great company).

If anyone has a possible interest please check out my website and hit me up:
Tactical Chaplain

Recent article with a little about me:
Meet the "Tactical Chaplain" who is a competitive powerlifter

Peace,
Matt

Fire Fighter up in Kern County


Your bone stock rig is plenty capable to get out and hit some trails in!!

Thank you for your service, Sir!

Thanks Evan. I imagine it is but most parking lots at fire and police stations I see Yotas and Jeeps all tricked out for harder trails than what my stock rig could handle. Plus you know how the bug bites - seeing all these modified 4x4s makes me want at least a small lift, maybe 275s (don’t want to regear), sliders and bumpers at least :-)

It’s an honor and privilege to do what I do now. I wish there were more resources for first responders.

I am neither. Funny enough, I was just looking into signing up and registering as a first responder.

Any guidance on where to start? I am in Orange County but would sign up as far as Joshua Tree and/or Big Bear area.

@[email protected] Do you know a Garey from the Sequia fire department? I met him during a camping trip, a great dude. ya'll have a tough gig up there!

Very cool Danny. I know lots of LA area first responders are heading to OC to be somewhere they’re more appreciated and supported.

Times are tough but still great professions… and we need good people.

I’d start asking to ride along and visit stations to speak to folks. Ask about their opinions on leadership and morale as that’s a huge issue right now. If folks don’t like chain of command or don’t feel supported it’s a ton of unnecessary stress.

Garey doesnt ring a bell. Important steps for US Forest Service and CALFIRE intro level positions are usually seasonal. Most of the hiring is dictated at the station Captain level. I would drive around and visit the stations and develop a relationship with the station personnel (these are the people you will be working with). Make multiple trips to show interest. Sometimes the crew will invite you along for a hike or workout(this is to see your commitment level and fitness level.. so make sure you are in good shape!)

Apart from that.. you can do college level courses. CALFIRE requires a 67 hour wildland firefighter certification (at least they used to.. not quite sure on the reqs now).. so looks into that as well.

I'm up here in Kern county too! plenty of local routes around Tehachapi and Rosamond that stock trucks can handle.

Thank you and stay safe

hey bud
im part time at Miyaki Motors in El Monte and we are definitely first responder and veteran friendly. in fact, both shop owner Ryan and I have friends in various LE agencies.
MIYAKI MOTORSPORTS - 74 Photos & 83 Reviews - Auto Repair - 2623 Tyler Ave, El Monte, CA - Phone Number - Yelp
give the shop a call ask for Vicky or Ryan they'll get you squared away for any questions you have