Keesler Firefighters assist in D'Iberville fire

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Stephan Coleman
  • 81st Training Wing Public Affairs
KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. --  The Keesler Fire Department responded March 4, to assist local first responders with an apartment complex fire in D'Iberville at 9 p.m.

Approximately nine Airmen were affected by the fire in the Arbor View Apartment complex, four of which had their homes destroyed, according to base leadership.
 The fire destroyed 16 apartment homes including those lost by Keesler Airmen. Most residents lost all of their personal items, but there were no injuries.

The D'Iberville Fire Department headed the battle against the fire with assistance from the Biloxi, Harrison County and Keesler Fire Departments. Between the four departments, the fire was contained to a single building, according to Gerald Smith, D'Iberville fire chief.

"Keesler is an integral part of the Gulf Coast region and stands ready to assist on any tragic event like the Arbor View Apartment fire," said Col. Mark Vivians, 81st Mission Support Group commander. "Thanks to the D'Iberville Fire Department for their leadership during the fire. Our units worked together seamlessly due to the relationship that we have forged."

Those affected by the fire will rely on assistance from base and community agencies.

"We are assisting Keesler personnel who were directly affected by dedicating lodging for families, providing support and donations," said Vivians. "We will continue to support the community anytime the need arises."

The Keesler Airman and Family Readiness Center is assisting Airmen and families who were impacted by the fire.

"Squadron first sergeants and individual units will help with immediate needs like clothing and money," said Jackie Pope, AFRC chief. "And bigger agencies like the Air Force Aid Society can assist those who have lost their homes."

The D'Iberville community is also offering options to families displaced by the fire.

The Red Cross opened a shelter for families at the D'Iberville Civic Center and is accepting donations to assist families. The Arbor View Apartment complex has an area set up for donations from the community, according to Jay Huffstatler, American Red Cross south Mississippi chapter executive.

The following items can be delivered to Arbor View Apartments (10480 Auto Mall Pkway, D'Iberville):
Men's: Pants Sizes - 32, 34, 30X32, 42X30, 48 and 50.
Shirts: Sizes - Small, Medium, Large, XL, 4X and 6X.
Shoes: Sizes - 10, 8, 16, 17.
Women's: Pants: Sizes - 16, 18, 20.
Shirts: Sizes - XL, 2X, 3X.
Shoes: Sizes - 7, 7 ½, 8, 8 ½.
Children (Girls): New born - 24 months, 4T.
Children (Boys): 9 - 12 months, Regular 16, XL shirt, 2T, 3T, 5T, size 8 shoes.
Additional Items: Medical scrubs, sizes 2X and 3X, and baby swing and walker.

For more information, call Arbor View Apartments at 228-396-0302.
To donate to the American Red Cross, call 228-896-4511 or visit redcross.org/donate.