Peterson AFB aerial firefighters deployed to Idaho

Given the wildfires in Colorado this season, it may seem surprising that a local aerial firefighting team wasn’t deployed until Wednesday.

But that’s the case with the 302nd Airlift Wing at Peterson Air Force Base, which departed around 9 a.m. for a mission in Idaho.

COL James Devere, the wing commander, explained why the ream hasn’t been requested until now.

“The reason we weren’t called is because the civilian tanker force is first on, and they’ve increased the number of aircraft over the last few years for the civilian tanker fleet,” he said. “So sometimes it takes a little bit longer before they need (us).”

A team of eight Reservists will spend five days trying to contain a wildfire near Boise and respond to other Western fires if needed.

The team is aboard one of two C-130 aircraft equipped with Modular Airborne Fire Fighting Systems (MAFFS) that can release 3,000 gallons of water or retardant in under five seconds, and can be refilled in fewer than 12 minutes.

“It had been an average wildfire season but the intensity has picked up recently,” Devere said.

Some people would like to see the Peterson resources deployed sooner, especially to Colorado fires.

“It’s a good thing that (they’re) going to aid someone in Idaho,”said Denis Fournier. “But the fact that it’s not being used in Colorado is quite frustrating. There’s a sense of comfort that comes with it, but where’s the comfort if it’s not being used in our own state?”

However, Doris Rabbers said she understands the Forest Service policy of prioritizing aerial resources where they’re most needed.

“With the Hayden (Pass) fire, it was a good thing in a way because of the insect infestation, so (they) let it burn (to) bring the forest back. I’m glad I don’t have to make that call.”

When not deployed, the 302nd Airlift Wing undergoes wildfire training to stay prepared.