While mobilized to Lufkin, Texas, as a wildland firefighter to support recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, David Mackintosh took notice of tireless work of those assigned to the Operation Blue Roof Program managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Inspired by the efficiency, hard work and character of the USACE staff, Mackintosh redirected his energy and set out to begin a career as a park ranger for the USACE.