The California National Guard has deployed over 2,500 members to combat devastating wildfires that recently swept through Los Angeles neighborhoods, marking one of the state's most destructive fire events in recent history.
The Eaton and Palisades fires, intensified by Santa Ana winds reaching 100 mph, have consumed over 37,000 acres combined. The Eaton fire destroyed neighborhoods in Altadena and Pasadena, while the Palisades fire tore through Pacific Palisades communities.
"A lot of us are even affected personally. I've got family down in Altadena, an aunt and uncle's house burnt down not too long ago, so this feels personal," said U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Peter Thach, a UH-60 Blackhawk crew chief.
The Guard's response includes aerial firefighting support with C-130 aircraft, Chinook and Blackhawk helicopters, over 20 specialized handcrew teams, and more than 1,000 soldiers managing traffic control points throughout Los Angeles.
Private Lesly Benitez of the 40th Military Police Brigade emphasized their role: "We as National Guard are trying to make sure people are safe, especially with looting out there."
This emergency response builds on a 30-year partnership between Cal Fire and the California National Guard. The collaboration has proven effective in previous disasters, including the 2020 Creek fire where Guard crews rescued 263 people and 16 dogs from the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
The Guard maintains readiness through Joint Task Force Rattlesnake, established in 2019, with 300 full-time service members working on fire prevention and suppression statewide under Cal Fire's guidance.
Staff Sgt. Carlos Araujo of the 40th Combat Aviation Brigade praised the inter-agency cooperation: "Working with Cal Fire on a mission like this is incredible, they integrate with us just as if they were military the entire time."
While containment efforts progress, with the Eaton fire at 87% contained and Palisades fire at 59% contained, Guard members remain committed to protecting their communities as investigations into the fires' causes continue.