The Idaho Air National Guard deployed 40 members today to support firefighting efforts for the Tower Fire, which is nearing the Washington-Idaho line in North Idaho. The Guard members were placed on active duty on Aug. 26 at the order of Gov. Butch Otter; they will operate control points on roads leading into the fire area near Priest Lake. The convoy left Gowen Field in Boise at 9 a.m. today and is expected to be at work as early as tonight. Their mission is scheduled to run through mid-September.

“Citizen-soldiers of the Idaho National Guard and personnel from the Idaho Bureau of Homeland security are in close coordination to make this mission happen.  This is what the Idaho Military Division trains for, this is what they’re prepared to do.  I’m impressed with their teamwork during this state emergency,” said Maj. Gen. Gary L. Sayler, adjutant general.