When a Mustang Answered the Call

Horses Still Have a Place on the Fireline

Fire Fighters on the Grasshopper Fire

July brought an intense wildfire season to Oregon. Across the state and others, firefighters worked around the clock to protect communities, forests, ranches, and crops from rapidly spreading fires. In South Wasco County, the Grasshopper Fire threatened the Mount Hood Wilderness, the Badger Creek Wilderness, and many of the rural communities that call this country home.

As the fire grew, one unexpected challenge threatened the firefighting effort.

When Communications Went Silent

Preparing to Assemble a Radio Repeater

The historic Flag Point Fire Lookout, a Forest Service tower dating back to the 1920s, became engulfed by smoke and flames. Beyond its historic significance, Flag Point served as an important communications hub, housing radio repeaters and cellular equipment relied upon by firefighters working the incident.

When the site was lost, much of the radio communication supporting the Grasshopper Fire was disrupted.

A temporary communications system needed to be established as quickly as possible.

A Problem No Truck Could Solve

A fire communications team was tasked with installing a temporary repeater on Postage Stamp Butte, a prominent ridge overlooking much of southern Wasco County.

There was just one problem.

Beyond being a steep difficult trail in, the access route had become overgrown with tall grass and brush. Fire vehicles could not safely reach the summit, helicopters were already committed to water drops and other critical missions, and using ATVs or side-by-sides carried the risk of igniting another fire with thier hot exaust systems in the dry tall vegetation. The equipment still had to get to the top.

The Original Backcountry Vehicle

Quigley Near the Postage Stamp Repeater

As firefighters searched for a solution, they contacted a nearby farrier and horse trainer. Teddy Franke saddled two horses and volunteered to pack the communications equipment up the mountain.

Leading the way was The Amazing Quigley, an IMHA-registered mustang and one of the featured horses in this year's Mustang Expo Show & Auction (MESA).

Working alongside the Cal Fire communications crew, the horses carried the repeater equipment to the summit of Postage Stamp Butte, where technicians successfully installed a temporary radio repeater. Within a short time, communications for firefighters on the Grasshopper Fire had been restored.

A Reminder of the Value of a Good Horse

Quigley with his companion Sunny-D in tow

Modern firefighting relies on sophisticated aircraft, engines, drones, and technology. Yet when every machine reached its limit, the solution came from one of humanity's oldest partners... A horse.

Horses have carried soldiers, ranchers, explorers, and firefighters through rugged country for generations. Their intelligence, sure-footedness, calm disposition, and ability to travel where vehicles cannot continue to make them valuable working partners today.

Stories like this remind us that these horses are far more than symbols of the American West—they remain capable, practical partners when the work truly matters.

More Than a Competition Horse

At IMHA, we celebrate the versatility of the American Mustang. Whether competing in the show arena, riding mountain trails, working cattle, or serving their communities, these horses continue to prove they are among the most capable partners in the world.

This July, one IMHA mustang helped firefighters restore a vital communication link during one of Oregon's most challenging wildfire seasons.

We couldn't be more proud of Quigley and the role he played in helping protect the people and landscapes we all care about.