Joint, local agencies combine to battle flames

Photo By Staff Sgt. Michael Murphy | A Guam Fire Department firefighter extinguishes a small fire after a wildland fire in Yigo, Guam, April 23, 2021. GFD jointly worked with the 36th Civil Engineer Squadron, 36th Security Forces Squadron and U.S. Navy Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25 to respond to the wildfire and protect local residents. Both USAF and USN forces are committed to the protection of Guam residents and wildlife. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Michael S. Murphy)  

YIGO, GUAM

04.23.2021

Story by Tech. Sgt. Eric Summers 

36th Wing

Team Andersen responded to an off base fire incident April 23, in Yigo, Guam.

Members of the 36th Security Forces Squadron, 36th Civil Engineering Squadron Fire Department and U.S. Navy Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 25 provided support to local first responders to help contain and extinguish a fire in the neighboring community.

“I am proud that we were able to help our local community in their time of need,” said Stanley Torres, 36th CES Fire Department fire chief. “Fires can be unpredictable and uncontrollable and I am happy that we were able to join our local counterparts to quickly and safely control this situation.”

In partnership with Guam Fire Department and Agriculture Forrest, Andersen personnel helped control traffic and battle a wildland fire that was reported at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Mount Santa Rosa.

“Our security forces members helped to close off traffic lanes on Route 15 to ensure no one unintentionally placed themselves in its path,” Torres explained. “During that time our fire fighters worked with local firefighters to suppress the 45 acre fire. HSC-25 helicopters also dropped two buckets of water to help put it out.”

By 1:20 p.m. the fire was contained and traffic routes returned to normal.

A local resident in the area of the fire said that he was thankful for the response of the Air Force and Guam Firefighters and Navy working together to stop the fire.

“It is always great when we are able to help our neighbors outside of the gate,” Torres said. “This is our home as well and we are glad to help protect and support whenever we can.”

• Date Taken: 04.23.2021
• Date Posted: 04.23.2021 02:52
• Story ID: 394536
• Location: YIGO, GU