Wed Sep 18 17:38:00 UTC 2024: ## Army Soldiers Aid in Battling Idaho Wildfires, Protecting Homes and Communities
**CASCADE, ID** – U.S. Army soldiers from Joint Base Lewis-McChord have been deployed to Idaho to assist firefighters in battling a series of wildfires near Lake Cascade. Their 30-day mission saw them protect evacuated homes and fight the Lava Fire, one of the largest fires in the area.
Soldiers, including Captain Bison Carcelli, have embraced their new role, seeing it as a vital way to contribute to their community. “It’s been super exciting being able to have something completely different from our normal job,” Carcelli said. “It’s been great to have an impact on home, like back here in the United States.”
Their efforts involved setting up sprinkler systems around homes and cabins threatened by the Lava Fire, using hoses connected to inflatable water tanks and a nearby creek. This provided a last line of defense in case firefighters needed to evacuate the area.
“We’re just plumbing this area so we can defend it if necessary,” said Alex Barrera, a U.S. Forest Service fire captain. “The sprinkler systems aren’t for the initial suppression factor. It’s for in the event we actually have to leave this area.”
The Lava Fire, which started by lightning on September 2, has burned over 95,000 acres and is currently 26% contained. The soldiers’ contribution has been crucial, as fire resources are stretched thin across the nation.
“Adding 10 handcrews comprised of U.S. Army Soldiers relieved pressure on the system,” said Kerry Greene, an emergency management specialist for the U.S. Forest Service.
Soldiers like Sergeant First Class Juan Reaves, who have never fought a wildfire before, have gained immense respect for the challenges faced by firefighters. “I didn’t know how complex wildfire was and how much knowledge goes into it,” said Carcelli.
The soldiers’ mission, which ended on Sunday, has highlighted the importance of collaboration between the military and civilian agencies in tackling wildfires. They are returning to Washington, leaving behind a legacy of service and a testament to their adaptability and commitment.
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