Four Macon-Bibb County firefighters have returned home after spending several days assisting with a large wildfire in South Georgia that continues to burn in Brantley County.

Lt. Tommy DeWitt, Sgt. Kendall Brown, Firefighter Wesley Briscoe, and Firefighter Andrew Evans deployed on Monday, April 27, to support response efforts as the wildfire spread across more than 22,000 acres. As of Thursday, the fire remains 33% contained, with crews continuing to work to stop its spread.

For Lt. DeWitt, this marked his first time responding to a wildfire and leading incident command of this magnitude in his 11-year career.

“It lets you know how small you are,” said DeWitt. “Natural disasters at any capacity are very humbling, but you also see humanity at its good side. Everybody comes together to help for a common goal.”

While on the ground, Lt. DeWitt was tasked with leading 16 other units, coordinating efforts to contain the fire and protect nearby structures, while also working 911 response. His leadership helped ensure the fire did not spread further into surrounding areas.

“The first 12-hour shift ended up being about 36 hours for us,” said Lt. DeWitt. “Not knowing who the men were with us was challenging. On the fly having to assign guys but not knowing everybody’s capabilities is difficult but everybody on that scene handled themselves with professionalism and excellence.”

Earlier this week, Walmart donated supplies identified by Lt. DeWitt and his crew as essential for firefighters working in the field. Those items included ice coolers, energy drinks, wipes, bug spray, ChapStick, sunscreen, ibuprofen, eye drops, snack bars, electrolyte drinks, and Benadryl.

“We are incredibly proud of our firefighters for stepping up and answering the call to help,” said Fire Chief Shane Edwards. “Their leadership and willingness to serve, not just here at home but wherever they are needed, speaks to the dedication and professionalism of our entire department.”

The deployment was part of a larger, coordinated response that brought together firefighters from across the state and region, all working long hours under challenging conditions.

The four firefighters returned home Thursday, swapping out with another Macon-Bibb crew that has now taken their place to continue assisting with the ongoing response. Those firefighters are  Lt. Daniel Riley, Firefighter John Gallagher, Firefighter Drake Davis, and Firefighter Luke Wilson.