In a decisive move to bolster wildfire response capabilities, the Hawai‘i Army National Guard (HIARNG) has teamed up with the Honolulu Fire Department (HFD) under Governor Green's authority, as per a recent statement. Issuing an Emergency Proclamation on July 18, Operation Hoʻopauahi was initiated, enabling the Guard's CH-47F Chinook helicopter crew to stand by for immediate aerial firefighting assistance to county and state first responders in emergent situations.
Speaking on the proactive measure, Governor Green highlighted the priorities of the program: "Our goal is simple — stop wildfires before they become disasters." The strategy is designed not only to nip potential flare-ups in the bud but also to conserve the natural beauty and homes of the island, Green said, according to a report by the Governor's Office. The HIARNG's readiness was tested twice in recent weeks, first by providing a new layer of support in a joint operation on August 1, following a red flag warning of increased fire risks, when the 297th Engineer Detachment Firefighting Team brought heavy water-tending equipment to Fire Station 28.
The coordination between the Guard and local firefighters was tested once more on August 19, when HIARNG dispatched two helicopters to support HFD in tackling the Kunia Road fire, Maj. Gen. Logan praised the quick response enabled by the Emergency Proclamation stating, "This authorization and Operation Hoʻopauahi will allow us to quickly and effectively activate other Hawaiʻi National Guard resources such as evacuation teams, traffic control and security missions," illustrating the Guard's broader mission to undergird a safe and prosperous state, as reported by the Governor's Office.
As the flames were doused from above by Guard aircrews, more than 80,000 gallons of water were dropped in 35 precise interventions, as per official reports. Soldiers from the HIARNG also demonstrated their on-ground capabilities by aligning with HFD's operational needs, providing a substantial boost to fire containment efforts. In the wake of the Guard's timely operations, Governor Green expressed his gratitude for their "swift action and steadfast commitment," which played a pivotal role in safeguarding Hawaiian communities from wildfire threats.
