More than 8,000 Guard soldiers, airmen, respond to Hurricane Irma
The Florida National Guard has more than 8,000 soldiers and airmen conducting search and rescue operations, recovery operations, supply distribution points, and shelter management operations throughout the state in support of local and state agencies, officials said Tuesday.
More than 11,000 Guardsmen from other states are assisting in support of recovery operations throughout the state.
“We’re extremely proud of the Guardsmen and active forces from across the country who are working now to save lives, prevent injuries and protect property,” the Guard said in a prepared statement. “We are well-equipped, with assets including high water vehicles, helicopters, boats, generators and more.”
“The next days and weeks will no doubt be trying and exhausting as we begin to rebuild. But no matter what this storm has brought, know that you are not alone,” said Maj. Gen. Michael Calhoun, the Adjutant General of Florida, in the statement.
Response to Hurricane Irma has been a massive team effort, officials said, adding the Florida National Guard is proud to be working closely with its civilian partner agencies, National Guard units from other states and active-duty counterparts.
Florida National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are helping at more than 250 shelters statewide, and will continue to assist however needed and requested by the counties.
The Guard has established Points of Distribution throughout the state, and is operating at the State Logistics Readiness Center in Orlando and Logistics Staging Areas to ensure that personnel are able to get supplies quickly to those who need them.
“We are aware of the critical situation in the Florida Keys, and continue to coordinate multi-service operations,” the statement reads. “Our Soldiers and Airmen are providing critical capabilities to include road and runway clearance to enable the delivery of life-saving supplies.”
Source: Florida National Guard