When the fast-moving Oak Knoll fire jumped from a field of dry grass and weeds across Interstate 5, it began devouring a row of Ashland homes, sending thick plumes of black smoke into the air.
"Heavy, thick, dark, acrid smoke was rolling through the subdivision," Jackson County Fire District 5 Chief Darin Welburn said of the 2010 fire started by a mentally ill homeless man.
Firefighters from across the Rogue Valley raced to battle the blaze — including Medford Fire-Rescue Battalion Chief Mark Burns.
The fire was so large and dangerous, fire departments went beyond mutual-aid agreements and activated the next level, triggering what they call a task force of additional firefighters and engines. Known for his tactical skills during emergencies, Burns was sent toward the houses on fire.