(Helena) – Governor Greg Gianforte on Friday issued an executive order to mobilize members of the Montana National Guard to support fire response efforts in the state of Washington.
The state of Washington is experiencing significant wildfire conditions in many parts of the state. In the City of Spokane, reports estimate that active fires have burned over 10,000 acres, destroyed over 700 structures, and have displaced an estimated 65,000 people. According to Washington Governor Bob Ferguson, resources from over 20 states and 100 jurisdictions are aiding the effort to fight the Spokane fires
The initial Montana National Guard support package is scheduled to depart for Washington on August 11 and includes one Montana Army National Guard CH-47 Chinook Heavy-lift helicopter, its crew, and one maintainer to total five Soldiers. The CH-47 provides critical heavy-lift capability to support wildfire suppression operations, including the movement of personnel and equipment.
