COLUMBIA, S.C. – Following a successful fire suppression support mission in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina National Guard aviation units are helping control wildfires in the Upstate.
U.S. Army Soldiers from Alpha Company, 1-111th General Support Aviation Battalion from McEntire Joint National Guard Base in Eastover and the 2-238th General Support Aviation Battalion from the Donaldson Center in Greenville, both part of 59th Aviation Troop Command, are using UH-60 Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinook helicopters to drop water from the air.
Black Hawks are equipped with 600-gallon water buckets, while the Chinook carries the largest bucket currently used on a military aircraft, capable of dropping up to 2,000 gallons of water per load.
“Our pilots and crews are working hard to support our partner agencies,” 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. “Their commitment to the ground efforts and especially to the people of South Carolina is profound.”
The crews recently completed missions in Myrtle Beach, releasing 1,027,360 gallons of water — roughly the volume of two Olympic-size swimming pools. Since beginning support in the Upstate, the aviation units have dropped 375,040 gallons of water in over 37 flight hours.
“I’m incredibly proud of the men and women of our aviation units,” 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. “They’ve been working long hours, responding to an unpredictable situation. Their dedication and commitment to keeping South Carolinians safe is truly inspiring.”
About 25 South Carolina National Guard aviation command Soldiers are on state active duty, supporting the South Carolina Forestry Commission and multiple agencies. More Guard members are prepared to be activated if needed.
“Our Soldiers are proud to assist our state partners in protecting communities and natural resources,” said Brig. Gen. Robin B. Stilwell, adjutant general of South Carolina. “We are committed to providing the necessary support to mitigate the impact of these wildfires and keep our communities safe.”