VIDEO: A mini-documentary was released about the heroic rescue efforts from the 2020 Creek Fire in Fresno County. “Beyond the Limits: Creek Fire Rescue,” released by the California National Guard (CalGuard), gives the perspective of pilots and flight crews who took part in the nighttime mission of saving 242 people, which is considered the largest helicopter rescue in National Guard history.
The Creek Fire began on Sept. 4, 2020, in the Sierra National Forest and left many trapped near the Mammoth Pool Reservoir as thick smoke intensified prompting an aerial rescue. Two helicopters, a Chinook and Black Hawk, made multiple flights through the smoke-filled airspace over seven hours.
The California Governor’s Office said multiple people suffered from severe burns and other injuries. “I am proud of the dedicated service members of the California National Guard, who humbly serve alongside our interagency partners in the fight against wildfires,” CalGuard Major General Matthew Beevers said in a release.
KCRA-TV NBC 3 Sacramento