Three Wyoming Air National Guard C-130s equipped with the U.S. Forest Service’s Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems and associated personnel were activated by U.S. Northern Command to help fight Los Angeles area wildfires.

The three C-130 aircraft were activated Jan. 9 and traveled to Channel Islands Air National Guard Base in California to assist the state’s firefighting apparatus. They are accompanied by a fourth C-130 support aircraft from a U.S. Air Force Reserve unit based in Colorado Springs and two C-130s from the Nevada Air National Guard. The California Air National Guard also has two C-130s assigned to the firefighting mission.

The participation of the California, Wyoming and Nevada Air National Guard and Colorado Reserve unit is spearheaded by the U.S. Northern Command, working with the U.S. Forest Service.

“It has been difficult to watch the absolute devastation of the wildfires in California,” said Col. Brian Diehl, commander of the Wyoming Air National Guard’s 153rd Airlift Wing. “We’re honored to be able to participate in our nation’s efforts to combat these fires and return normalcy to the people and communities of Southern California, and as soon as possible.”

The addition of the Wyoming and Nevada Air Guard personnel brought the total number of Guard members on the mission to more than 1,850.

“The 152nd Airlift Wing, Nevada Air National Guard, is ready to assist in protecting the people, homes, and businesses in Southern California.,” said Col. Catherine Grush, commander of the 152nd Airlift Wing. “Californians are not only our neighbors but part of our family of Guardsmen and women, and we are honored to help assist with this effort.”