Louisiana sends wildfire support

Submitted by admin on Tue, 07/15/2008 - 21:28

BATON ROUGE — Today, Governor Bobby Jindal announced that he has called on the Louisiana National Guard to assist California authorities in the containment of fires that have consumed over 100 homes, more than 1,100 square miles of land, and already created millions of dollars of destruction. On Sunday, July 13, the Louisiana National Guard will dispatch support teams consisting of two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters, a water drop bucket, and personnel consisting of flight crews and a maintenance team.

Governor Bobby Jindal said, “After Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, states from all across the country helped assist Louisiana in our response and recovery efforts by donating their equipment, money, and time. The people of Louisiana are thankful and we stand ready to serve our fellow Americans in their time of need. Our thoughts and prayers are with California firefighters and residents.”

Major General Bennett C. Landreneau, Louisiana National Guard Adjutant General, said, “The Louisiana National Guard is extremely pleased to provide assistance to our sister state in their time of need. We understand first hand the importance of assisting our fellow states, just as we have been helped during past disasters. Our helicopters and crews are ready to provide support to fighting the devastating wildfires that are occurring in California. The strength of the National Guard lies in our ability to quickly respond to emergencies or disasters throughout all of our states and territories.”

Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Director Mark Cooper, who coordinated the assistance efforts with California, said, “I worked for the Los Angeles County Fire Department for 10 years and witnessed wildfire devastation. Three years ago, the L.A. County Fire Department assisted in the response efforts during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Now, it’s time to reciprocate and show support for the people of California in their time of need.”

Louisiana National Guard support units will remain in California for two weeks.