Nevada Division of Forestry Pilot completes first fire drop on Cave Spring Fire

The Nevada Division of Forestry’s Wells Air Attack Base marked a milestone this week as pilot Annie Story completed her first tactical wildfire dispatch and successful retardant drop on the Cave Spring Fire near Caliente.

The Wells detachment made its first deployment of the season Thursday, with Flight Lead Cade flying T-825 alongside Story in T-815. The team was dispatched to support firefighting efforts, where Story completed her first operational aerial retardant drop.

For Story, the accomplishment marked the culmination of years of training and a journey that began in Eastern Oregon, where wildfires were a regular part of summer life.

“I was always interested in wildfires since they were a danger and I would see them every summer,” Story said.

Her path to aviation began at age 20 while attending college as a business major. After realizing she wasn’t passionate about her studies, a skydiving experience sparked her interest in flying.

“I realized that learning to fly was something I would enjoy,” Story said. “After my introductory flight I knew I wanted to be a pilot.”

While working as a flight instructor in Massachusetts, Story connected with Rutledge Airborne, which helped prepare her for aerial firefighting operations.

“I was fortunate they helped me grow as a pilot over the past two years to be able to do this job,” Story  said.

Despite initial nerves, Story said her focus shifted quickly once the mission began.

“It was incredible,” she said. “I was excited and nervous, but once I watched my lead drop, I focused on my procedures and training. The nerves went away.”

Story credited Flight Lead Cade for helping prepare her for the milestone.

“I am so grateful for his help and training,” Story said.

Nevada Division of Forestry officials noted that Story was recognized as the organization’s top new-hire pilot this spring.

Crew members said Story returned to Wells “all smiles” following the mission. Upon landing, she was welcomed by the crew and presented with a repurposed birthday card, a tradition at the base, along with a celebratory steak dinner.

Now based in Merrimack, New Hampshire, Story said flying wildfire suppression missions has been both challenging and rewarding. Her successful first drop highlights the training and teamwork behind aerial firefighting operations.

As wildfire activity increases across the region, pilots like Story play a key role in supporting firefighters on the ground and protecting communities and natural resources.

The Cave Spring fire was categorized as no longer active on June 15 after burning just under 10 acres.