Phil first trekked with the inaugural group of Kit Carson Men in 1968.  He returned and worked on staff in the 60s and 70s.  From 2014 on, he’s been heavily involved with the PSA and this summer, he completed his 14th PSA trek.  As a ranger on staff in 69, Phil appreciated and enjoyed the exposure to diversity, guiding crew from all over the country. The rest of his  tenure was spent in the backcountry, namely the two summers he was CD at Fish Camp - back when the hot water heater, shower, and flushing toilet was still functioning.  Phil shares many stories including  the two year concrete removal project and the epic New Years fish fry.

In the second portion of his interview, Phil highlights the rewarding work of being involved with the Philmont Staff Association - where his Philmont family has grown exponentially.  He specifically discusses a behind the scenes take on Volunteer Vacation and PhilBreak. Both of which are an economical and worthwhile way to visit the ranch and give back. 

Philmont Experience:
1968 - Kit Carson Men (Rayado)
1969 - Ranger
1970 - Training Ranger
1971 - Camp Director - Fish Camp
1972 - Camp Director - Fish Camp
1973 - Camp Director - Baldy Town
1974 - Camp Director - Cimarroncito
2014-2016 - PSA Central Region Director
2017-2019 - PSA National Director
2020-2022 - PSA National Director
2023-2026 - PSA National Director
2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 - PSA Volunteer Vacation
2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 - PSA PhilBreak
2005-2022 - 14 PSA Treks and 2 PSA Autumn Adventures

Notable Mentions:
Mike Barrett
Bill Shriver
Joe Davis
Clarence Dunn
Dave Caffey
Anne Marie Kauffman
Greg McEwen
Brad Plumb
John Calcaterra
Nick Pizor
Richard Persico
Dollie O'Neill
Kevin Dowling
Randy Saunders
Lee Huckstep
John Celley
Mike Crockett
Ben Harper
Alex Rose
Lee Hughes
Shayla Ridgway
Ed Pease
Mark Stinnett
Stephen and Cynthia Trumper

Support the show