Justin Hester is joining a team of volunteers from the nonprofit relief organization Reach Out World Wide.
Hester and other firefighters from around the U.S. plan to help build fire breaks for wildlife sanctuaries, rescue animals, and deliver supplies to the most impacted areas. He says he's excited to put his training to good use.
"It really has broken my heart, which compels most of us to do what we do. We want to get out there and do what we can to help to make this place a better place, and the world itself, too," Hester said.
The group plans to be deployed until the end of January.
US firefighters met with applause arriving at Australia airport to help battle wildfires
VIDEO: US firefighters met with applause arriving at Australia airport to help battle wildfires