Nev. Aircrew Assists Ore. Wing Wildfire Response

An aircrew from the Nevada Wing answered the call for more help in assessing damage from wildfires burning across Oregon since early September. 

An aircrew flew in Sept. 21 from the Nevada Wing to assist Oregon Wing teams. Civil Air Patrol is taking aerial images to speed Federal Emergency Management Agency and Oregon Emergency Managemen efforts to assess damage to critical infrastructure. Aircrews from the Washington and California wings are participating in the mission as well.

Wildfires have charred more than 1 million acres in Oregon, destroyed hundreds of buildings and killed 11, including a firefighter. Thousands were forced to evacuate their homes and businesses ahead of the flames. 

More than 10 CAP aircraft are flying the photo missions when weather permits. 

Capt. Maryan Tooker, Nevada Wing public affairs officer, is the aerial photographer for her wing’s aircrew. “What we have seen in the photographs already taken is devastating,” Tooker said. “Our hearts go out to those displaced from their homes and businesses. We are glad to be part of the initial assessment and early repair and rebuild process.” 

The other Nevada crewmembers are 2nd Lt. Rob Daniel, mission pilot, and, Lt. Col. Steven Accinelli, mission observer. Both are members of the Nevada Wing’s Douglas County Composite Squadron, based at Minden-Tahoe Airport. 

Acting as a Total Force partner and the U.S. Air Force auxiliary, CAP is aligned with First Air Force to rapidly respond to nonmilitary threats domestically when tasked in a Defense Support of Civil Authorities capacity to save lives, relieve suffering, prevent property damage and provide humanitarian assistance.