Nebraska Gov. Pillen, Adjutant General Strong Tour Cottonwood Fire & Visit Brady Community

Officials survey wildfire damage and meet with first responders and affected residents

Mar. 19, 2026 at 5:18pm

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Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen and Major General Craig Strong, adjutant general for the Nebraska National Guard, toured the Cottonwood Fire from the air and met with firefighters, ranchers, and community members in Brady, Nebraska. The Cottonwood Fire has burned over 131,000 acres across three counties and destroyed at least 44 structures, threatening 170 more. The officials discussed the state's response efforts and the impact on local livelihoods.

Why it matters

The Cottonwood Fire is one of several major wildfires burning in Nebraska, which has experienced severe drought conditions and high winds that have fueled the rapid spread of the flames. The governor's visit highlights the state's efforts to support local communities and first responders dealing with the fallout from these devastating wildfires.

The details

Governor Pillen and Maj. Gen. Strong first viewed the Cottonwood Fire from the air before meeting with firefighters, ranchers, and other community members in Brady. At the Brady Fire Department, they received updates on the fire's impact, which has destroyed at least 44 structures and threatened 170 others. The officials also traveled to the Brady Community Center to speak with a larger group of farmers, ranchers, and residents affected by the wildfires.

  • On Saturday, Governor Pillen previously surveyed fire damage from the air.
  • The Cottonwood Fire has been burning for over 72 hours.

The players

Jim Pillen

The Governor of Nebraska who is overseeing the state's response to the wildfires.

Craig Strong

The adjutant general for the Nebraska National Guard, who is coordinating military support for firefighting efforts.

Laura Field

The executive vice president of the Nebraska Cattlemen, an organization providing disaster relief and resources for affected ranchers.

Erv Portis

The assistant director for the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, who is urging caution due to ongoing drought and weather conditions.

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What they’re saying

“Right here is the heart and the soul of this community – our volunteer firefighters. I can't imagine what you have been through these past 72 hours or more. Our goal is to get you what you need. There are people from across our state and the nation who want to help Nebraska.”

— Jim Pillen, Governor of Nebraska

“I feel in awe being here with you today. I am humbled to be in your presence. When the fire started, the Governor had three words for us, 'whatever it takes.'”

— Craig Strong, Adjutant General, Nebraska National Guard

“The resilience and determination of our ranchers in the face of wildfire is deeply inspiring. The courage of first responders and volunteer firefighters who are risking their lives while stepping away from their own families and operations is nothing short of extraordinary. In the weeks and months ahead, Nebraska Cattlemen stands ready to support recovery in every way it can. We are profoundly grateful for the heart and soul of Nebraska rallying around neighbors in need.”

— Laura Field, Executive Vice President, Nebraska Cattlemen

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.