Airports mean many things to many people in California.
Private companies, public agencies, and governmental organizations see them as a resource to get the job done. Service companies and aviation-related vendors see them as money in the bank from the customers they attract. In short, airports provide a valuable service, directly and indirectly, to the local community. Formed in 1995, this cadre of dedicated volunteers has been a significant presence at Auburn Airport, allowing the Sheriff's Department to provide a higher level of safety and security to the citizens of Placer County. According to Undersheriff Steve D'Arcy, the formation of this unit was made possible, in large part, due to the availability of surplus helicopters from the U.S. military and a local pool of highly qualified pilots.