Arizona Guard Sends Aviation Assets to Help Fight Cal Wildfires

PHOENIX, Ariz. - In response to the ongoing wildfire crisis impacting the state of California, two UH-60 aircraft with water buckets and 13 personnel from the Arizona National Guard are deploying to Mather Field to support the firefighting efforts. This action comes amidst a significant surge in wildfire activity, with 21 wildfires burning across various regions of the state.

"Because we are the primary combat reserve of the US Armed Forces, the National Guard has the resources to coordinate swift responses to local disasters," said Maj. Gen. Kerry Muehlenbeck, the Adjutant General of Arizona. "When our states and territories call upon each other in times of need, we do not hesitate to unite our resources to support our communities."

The largest and most devastating of these wildfires, the Park Fire, has already consumed approximately 368,000 acres and affected four counties. Additionally, the SQF Lightning Complex fire, which has burned 85,000 acres and spread across two counties, is being closely monitored by Cal OES.

As the primary combat reserve, the National Guard is always prepared to pivot from national defense missions to supporting local communities at a moment's notice. Upon receiving California's assistance request, the Department of Emergency and Military Affairs immediately mobilized to assess feasibility and resources for support. Crews are set to depart and seamlessly integrate with California's firefighting efforts by this weekend. The decision to redeploy back to Arizona will be based on the mission request.

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