Altus Air Force Base News

 

Altus AFB lends hand to community in local fire

  • Published
  • By 97th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
ALTUS, Okla. --  Altus Air Force Base fire department personnel responded to a local fire July 8 at the Apple Creek Apartments in the City of Altus.

The fire engulfed 16 apartment units and displaced a total of 19 people. The City of Altus, Altus AFB, Blair and Friendship fire departments responded in a combined effort to ensure the safety of personnel and extinguish the fire. Prior to their arrival, apartment residents worked together to evacuate the building. No injuries or fatalities were reported.

"The prompt response and teamwork displayed by all the community fire departments and our Wing's firefighters was truly impressive," said Col. Bill Spangenthal, 97th Air Mobility Wing commander. "These emergency responders should all be very proud of their efforts which ensured the safety of the apartment residents."

Nine Altus AFB personnel, including seven Airmen and two civilian employees, lost their homes in the fire. One of the Airmen has two dependents. Immediately following this unfortunate incident, the base and local community quickly fashioned numerous support avenues to include: welcoming donations to Operation Homefront and Operation Warm Heart; Airman and Family Readiness Center financial counseling; and donations from the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, local churches and commissary vendors. The central location for all community donations, both monetary and other supplies, is the Apple Creek Apartments management office.

Continued efforts are in place to ensure long-term support for the fire victims, to include Airmen, civilian employees and members of the community, whose possessions were destroyed.

Donations to Apple Creek Apartments can be delivered to 1501 S. Park Lane in Altus. To donate to the base's Operation Warm Heart call 580-481-7700. To donate to Operation Homefront Oklahoma call 580-581-0772 or visit www.operationhomefront.net/okar.