At the request of the National Interagency Fire Center, U.S. Northern Command is preparing to deploy approximately 200 soldiers to support a wildland fire ground response operation in the Pacific Northwest.
U.S. Army Western Hemisphere Command, Northcom's joint force land component, will oversee the military ground operation in support of federal and state efforts.
The 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, based at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, has been notified of the upcoming mission. The soldiers, who completed initial wildland firefighter training with the U.S. Forest Service in July, will undergo additional specialized training at JBLM prior to deploying.
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"Our soldiers are well-trained and ready to respond quickly and effectively to assist in protecting people, property and public lands," said Army Brig. Gen. Jerry E. Baird Jr., U.S. Army Western Hemisphere Command deputy commanding general. "This mission underscores our unwavering dedication to the defense support of civil authorities mission."
The additional training will be conducted by a highly experienced cadre and will cover firefighter safety, fire suppression methods and the proper use of personal protective equipment. Once fully prepared and deployed, the soldiers will serve as hand crews, constructing fire lines and conducting line-holding actions under the direct guidance of experienced civilian wildland fire crew bosses.
The War Department has been a key wildland firefighting partner for decades, providing unique capabilities and resources to the national response effort.