06/19/2025
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news that one of our Superintendents, Thomas Clay, passed away recently. Clay has been a staple within the aviation community, both nationally and on the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest for the better part of three decades. Prior to the consolidation of the two helitack programs on forest in 2019, Clay spent years working for Musselshell Helitack. As arguably the best helicopter manager to grace the fire-aviation industry, Clay brought a calm, calculated energy to even the most complex missions. Clay also excelled as a teacher with his seemingly infinite patience and his incredibly vast knowledge of aviation policy, aircraft capabilities, and aviation history. Outside of work, Clay could be found hunting, fishing, and trapping around the Riggins area, or spending time at his cabin in Warren.
As both the crew and the Forest mourns the loss of our colleague, and our friend, we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has reached out to offer their support in this trying time.
