CONWAY, S.C. - The South Carolina Army National Guard helped fight wildfires in Horry County for a week, dropping water from helicopters 975 times.
U.S. Army Soldiers from the 1-111th General Support Aviation Battalion, 59th Aviation Troop Command, out of McEntire Joint National Guard Base in Eastover used UH-60 Black Hawk and 2-238th General Support Aviation Battalion, 59th Aviation Troop Command CH-47 Chinook helicopters for the fire suppression missions. Each Black Hawk carries a water bucket holding about 600 gallons, while a Chinook can drop up to 2,000 gallons.
“This past week has been challenging for those affected by the Covington Drive Fire in Horry County,” said U.S. Army Capt. Chase Blackwell, commander of Alpha Company, 1-111th General Support Aviation Battalion, 59th Aviation Troop Command, South Carolina Army National Guard. “Yet, I have witnessed some of South Carolina’s finest rise to the occasion — putting the mission first, getting the job done, and making a real difference. I could not be more proud of the Soldiers and warrant officers of Alpha Company.”
Since March 2, these crews have released 1,027,360 gallons of water — nearly the equivalent of two Olympic-size swimming pools. The aircraft crews supported the South Carolina Forestry Commission and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
“Our helicopter crews have put in over 100 hours of flight time, making hundreds of water drops and dispersing massive amounts of water during fire suppression missions,” said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Matthew Summey, commander of 2nd Battalion, 151st Security and Support Battalion, 59th Aviation Troop Command, South Carolina Army National Guard. “Their dedication has played a crucial role in protecting communities and supporting first responders on the ground.”
While lousy weather temporarily paused air operations March 7, firefighters on the ground continued their efforts. The fire covered 2,059 acres before it was 55% contained.
“The South Carolina National Guard is proud to support the South Carolina Forestry Commission and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources,” said U.S. Army Col. Brian Pipkin, commander, 59th Aviation Troop Command, South Carolina Army National Guard. “The relentless commitment and teamwork of all agencies involved are a testament to the dedication to our communities.”
On March 10, aircraft from the Georgia Army National Guard’s 78th Aviation Troop Command took over fire suppression efforts from the South Carolina National Guard. The transition is happening through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, which allows states to respond quickly to wildfires, hurricanes and other emergencies.
The National Guard remains a key player in disaster relief. It is committed to helping protect communities and ensuring the safety of residents and their homes. Always Ready, Always There!