Black Hawk Helicopters Join The Battle In Robbers Fire
FORESTHILL (CBS13) - Black Hawk helicopters are helping the fire fight against the Robbers Fire.
They took off from Mather Field Saturday morning on orders from Gov. Jerry Brown.
"The Black Hawks bring a tremendous ability to the fight," said one pilot.
Five California National Guard Black Hawks joined the fight to contain the Robbers Fire burning in Placer County.
While structures remain threatened and a thousand plus acres have burned, Cal Fire increased personnel and flew in the helicopters for an aerial fight.
One Bambi bucket alone pours 660 gallons of water on one drop.
"We've been fighting fires in California for 40 years with tremendous expertise," said National Guard Major General David Baldwin.
Baldwin says the aircraft will help with containment.
"These aircraft are tremendously capable," said Baldwin.
While containment has improved, the remote location of the fire, along with tricky terrain, is an element that proves the Black Hawks to be a needed resource in the fight.
"It's pretty tough terrain for ground crews to get into, so having extra air assets really bring a lot for Cal fire to have," said National Guard Chief Bobby Brockly.
According the National Guard, the last time all five Black Hawks battled a fire together was in 2008 during Operation Lightning Strike.
