The Other 98%

CalFire was alerted that 200 people were entirely encircled in fire. They formally declared them beyond the ability of CalFire to save, effectively telling them they were on their own (likely to die). CA National Guard spun up 2 helicopters and headed out to help

2. On the ride over, CalFire called them repeatedly to call them off and tell them to go back to base as it was too dangerous. Flying using night vision through high cross winds, smoke, burning embers and rough terrain, the CA NG rescued all 200 people.

3. Their efforts were captured through their own pictures. Huge, huge props to the CA NG, pretty remarkable.
credit: Jon Robert Quinn