Request for ND Guard helicopter canceled

Update…

BISMARCK (CSi)  Washington state’s request for support and resources from the North Dakota National Guard was canceled Friday afternoon.

Due to the heavy amount of rainfall Washington received in the past 24 hours, about half of all the requests for aviation support were canceled.

“As always, the N.D. National Guard continues to stand ready to respond quickly with equipment and trained personnel when needed,” said Col. Darcie Handt, N.D. National Guard chief of joint staff. “Our condolences go out to those affected as well as those that are involved in helping combat the wildfires in Washington. We hope that they remain strong in their fight.”

Two pilots, two crew chiefs and a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter from the N.D. Army National Guard’s 1-112th Aviation Battalion were set to go to Washington tomorrow to help combat wildfires in Washington.

Previously…
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) – The North Dakota National Guard says it’s sending a helicopter and four soldiers to Washington state to help battle wildfires.

The military says two pilots, two crewmembers and a Black Hawk helicopter from the Bismarck-based 112th Aviation Regiment will be in Washington state for about 20 days.

The military says officials in Washington state sent a request for additional resources to fight wildfires after their own state resources were exhausted.

The Guard says several other states have responded with help.