Garett Bolles protects veterans and community from wildfires

In a significant effort to protect a therapy facility for military veterans with PTSD, Garett Bolles, a lineman for the Denver Broncos, collaborated with Team Rubicon and USAA to conduct fire mitigation on the property of Eagle's Nest Ranch in Elizabeth, Colorado. This work involved trimming and clearing hundreds of trees on the ranch's 40 acres, aimed at reducing the threat of wildfires that could potentially endanger nearby homes. The organization Team Rubicon, which is led by veterans, stepped in to assist in preparing the area for wildfire season, highlighting the importance of such preventive measures in high-risk regions. The initiative was prompted by the alarming frequency of wildfires in Colorado, where many communities face increasing risks due to environmental conditions and past beetle infestations that have left many trees dead or dying. Bolles, who has a military background in his family, expressed his strong connection to the mission, pointing out that protecting the community is akin to his role as a protector on the football field. He described the work as a full-circle moment, tying together his responsibilities to both his teammates and the local community. The efforts were not just about physical labor; they carried emotional significance. Suzy Stanfill, founder of the ranch, emphasized the emotional satisfaction of witnessing a large group of volunteers come together to support a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans. This collaboration not only demonstrates the community's spirit but also ensures that veterans like Jamie Minner, who have faced the psychological scars of war and loss, can find healing in a safe and serene environment. As wildfires continue to threaten numerous states, the combination of proactive community action, the involvement of notable public figures like Bolles, and the collaboration with organizations committed to supporting veterans serves as a powerful example of community resilience and responsibility. The work at Eagle's Nest Ranch not only prepares the land for safety against wildfires but also creates a lasting bond between those who serve in the military and the communities they protect, affirming that in times of need, collective effort can lead to meaningful change.