he Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) has secured critical out-of-state aviation resources to battle the ongoing Bunker Fire in Calhoun County, Arkansas.
Through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), the State of Mississippi and the State of Oklahoma have answered the call for help. Both states are providing 1 Chinook helicopter each, equipped with massive 2,000-gallon Bambi buckets to boost local and state wildfire suppression efforts.
Multi-State Crews Arrive in Arkansas
The multi-state aviation mission officially begins today, Friday, September 18, 2026. The specialized teams will support ground forces over the coming days:
* Mississippi deployed a 5-person crew locked in for a 6-day mission.
* Oklahoma deployed a 6-person crew scheduled for a 5-day mission.
“We appreciate Mississippi and Oklahoma for joining Arkansas in this coordinated mission,” said ADEM Director AJ Gary. “Their aviation support strengthens state and local agencies’ ability to contain the Bunker Fire.”
About ADEM
As the primary homeland security and preparedness agency for the state, ADEM works to mitigate, prepare for, and respond to major threats and natural disasters. Local residents looking for official updates or disaster resources can contact the public affairs office at 501-683-6700 or monitor the citizen portal online.
