Washington State Guard Enhances Wildfire Readiness with Simulated Fire Exercise

As we approach fire season, the Washington State Guard, alongside the Washington National Guard and local fire departments, is ramping up its preparation and training efforts to respond effectively to wildfires. This past weekend, members of the Washington State Guard participated in “Yakima Burn,” a simulated fire scenario designed to enhance their readiness for such disasters. This exercise aimed to equip the State Guard members with the skills necessary to protect their state in the event of a wildfire. During the training, Col. Angela Gentry, Director of Operations at the Joint Force Headquarters of the Washington National Guard, visited the State Guard. The Washington State Guard plays a crucial role in the Washington Military Department’s comprehensive wildfire response strategy, supporting the Washington State Department of Natural Resources.

The Washington State Guard, along with other State Defense Forces such as the California State Guard, has a longstanding tradition of collaborating with their respective National Guard units to combat wildfires. Wildfires are highly volatile and can devastate communities and entire regions, making wildfire preparedness and response essential. The importance of wildland firefighting cannot be overstated, and each State Defense Force should be an integral part of their state’s response plan. By working in tandem with the National Guard and other emergency services, these forces ensure a robust defense against the threat of wildfires, safeguarding lives and property across their states.

We commend The Washington State Guard and their soldiers for taking on such a dangerous and vital mission to ensure their citizens remains safe.

This past weekend members of the Washington State Guard conducted training exercise “Yakima Burn” a simulated fire scenario. The training was conducted to help prepare the members of the Washington State Guard to protect their homeland in case of disaster.

The State Guard members were visited by Col. Angela Gentry, Director of Operations, Joint Force Headquarters, Washington National Guard. The State Guard is part of the Washington Military Department’s overall wildfire response package that supports Washington State Department of Natural Resources.

by Spc. Abigail Clark, 122nd TPASE