“Today marked yet another milestone in the proud history of the Idaho National Guard as wildland firefighter ground crews mobilized and deployed to support the growing wildland fire threats across our state.”-Brigadier General Russ Johnson, Idaho National Guard Joint Staff
Idaho Army National Guard photo by Master Sergeant Becky Vanshur.
On 04AUG2021, sixteen Idaho Air and Army National Guard personnel, who are federal Type 2 Red Card (Incident Qualification Card) certified, were deployed to assist the Idaho Department of Lands battle at least 15 wildfires across the Gem State.
To be Red Card certified means you’re literally are given a red card saying you are qualified to fight wildfires. IANG photo by Master Sergeant Becky Vanshur.
72 Idaho state militia personnel are Red Card certified: “We are currently training more Soldiers and Airmen as they volunteer for this mission in the hopes of building a large capacity consisting of several hand crews.”-Lieutenant Colonel Tony Vincelli, Task Force Timber Shield
IANG photo by Master Sergeant Becky Vanshur.
Two Idaho National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters have also been fighting fires, dropping more than 205-thousand gallons since July 13th.
An Idaho 1-183rd Aviation Battalion Black Hawk deployed to fight fires in California, in 2020. California Air National Guard photo by Captain Jason Sanchez.
Eight militia members have also been providing logistical support since July 21st, at the Idaho Fire Cache warehouse in Coeur d’Alene.
IANG photo by Master Sergeant Becky Vanshur.
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