Gov. Kevin Stitt has authorized the Oklahoma National Guard to provide a CH-47 Chinook helicopter and crew to support ongoing wildfire suppression efforts in Arkansas at the request of the Arkansas Forestry Division and Arkansas National Guard.
The Oklahoma National Guard’s support is currently planned for four days and will provide additional aviation capability to assist Arkansas emergency responders in their firefighting efforts.
The deployment is being conducted through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, or EMAC, an interstate mutual-aid agreement that allows states to provide personnel, equipment and other resources to one another during emergencies and disasters.
“Oklahoma stands ready to support our neighbors when they need assistance,” said Maj. Gen. Thomas H. Mancino, adjutant general for Oklahoma. “Our Soldiers and Airmen are trained and prepared to respond when called upon, and we are proud to support Arkansas emergency responders during this effort.”
While providing support to Arkansas, the Oklahoma National Guard remains in close coordination with the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and the Oklahoma Forestry Services. The Oklahoma National Guard remains prepared to provide support for ongoing wildland firefighting operations within Oklahoma as needed.
The Oklahoma National Guard will continue to coordinate with Arkansas officials throughout the mission and adjust support as needed based on the ongoing wildfire response. • Story and photo by MAJ Kayla L. Christopher, Plans Officer
