Gettysburg Fire Department (GFD) proudly contributed to the ongoing efforts to combat two significant wildfires in Michaux State Forest, located in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. The Thompson Hollow Fire and the Hammonds Rock Fire have collectively scorched over 1,300 acres, prompting evacuations and extensive firefighting operations.

GFD volunteers, including Chief Ken Kime, Assistant Chief David Blocher, and firefighters Wesley Heyser and Al Knerr, collaborated with the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) to address these wildfires. Their primary responsibilities involved extinguishing residual hot spots and implementing measures to prevent the fires from crossing roadways, a critical task given the prevailing winds and dry conditions.

The GFD team remained on the scene overnight, dedicating 12 hours to the firefighting efforts and flowing over 2,000 gallons of water to suppress the flames. Their commitment and expertise were instrumental in supporting the broader containment strategies orchestrated by DCNR and other responding agencies.

The Gettysburg Fire Department extends its gratitude to all personnel involved in the wildfire response and emphasizes the importance of community awareness and preparedness during wildfire season.