BACKBONE CONTRIBUTOR - BEN MCLANE “For myself and so many before me, it was the understanding of the elevated responsibilities that intrigued us.” - McLane Ben is a Hotshot. And to the many Fire Service members, that title means something; sometimes good, sometimes bad. To him, it means that he’s signed up to have a little bit extra asked of him and to say yes gladly – to stay on the line later, go out further, hike the heavier pack up the steeper hill. It’s a title that, for many who are familiar with it, draws a dynamic image. An image that may be attractive to some and unfavorable/undesirable to others and that curiosity selects individuals who prefer to error on the side of risk, uncertainty, and service to others. You learn quickly that the title and the image don’t mean much. What matters and has kept him coming back is the identity. No matter where his career takes him in title and task, his experience on a Hotshot crew will be a part of his identity forever. It will influen...