Many of us at one time or another have wished we could be a park ranger and work at one of America's breathtaking national parks. It could be the round tan Stetson hat, the uniform or the opportunity to help that appeals most. Being outdoors, walking some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world and working with people peaks most of our interest. We owe a lot to the namesake of today's award, Harry Yount. He was the nation's first park ranger, at Yellowstone in the 1880's.
Rangers fulfill the important role of welcoming people into our parks.
When Americans pile into the family car and go to a National Park, they know a park ranger will greet them. Yount defined the role of ranger. He focused on resource management and protection, and visitor services. He set standards that guide park rangers to this day. Park rangers around the country choose the recipient of this award.