In 2020, CalGuard crews rescued 242 people trapped by California’s Creek Fire

California National Guard crews performed a historic nighttime helicopter rescue during the Creek Fire. They saved 242 people trapped by intense flames and thick smoke. This extraordinary mission utilized night-vision goggles and combat helicopters in a wildfire zone. The daring rescue demonstrated new possibilities for nighttime wildfire aviation response. California has since expanded its nighttime aviation capabilities and interagency training.