Rapid Response and Support Following Hurricane Helene: U.S. Army North Steps In
Introduction
SAN ANTONIO, Texas – Responding promptly to a request from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and in collaboration with the North Carolina National Guard, U.S. Army North (ARNORTH) has deployed active-duty Title 10 personnel to assist with relief operations for Hurricane Helene. This strategic response highlights an extensive mobilization of resources to facilitate effective recovery efforts.
Troops Mobilized to Assist Affected Areas
Beginning on October 3, troops from several renowned units including the 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, part of the esteemed 82nd Airborne Division, and elements of the 20th Engineer Brigade from XVIII Airborne Corps initiated their movements from Fort Liberty, North Carolina. Their destination is regions surrounding Asheville where they will provide crucial support during this challenging period post-hurricane.
The deployment features airborne capabilities alongside significant engineering assets — essential for emergency road clearance and ensuring that vital routes remain accessible amid widespread damage.
Coordination with Local Authorities
Active-duty soldiers will work closely with North Carolina’s Dual Status Commander and collaborate intensively with FEMA as well as various state and local agencies. The Joint Force Land Component Command (JFLCC), operating under USNORTHCOM supervision, serves as the main Department of Defense entity orchestrating support efforts for civil authorities responding to both natural disasters like hurricanes or other emergent situations.
“We are wholly dedicated at ARNORTH to extending indispensable aid to both North Carolina residents and our federal counterparts following Hurricane Helene’s devastation,” commented Maj. Gen. Scott M. Sherman, commander of ARNORTH and JFLCC. “Our soldiers are actively involved in addressing response tasks while facilitating recovery operations for communities facing these unprecedented challenges.”
Impact of Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Helene struck land near Florida’s Big Bend region late September 26, 2024, making its presence felt as a Category 4 storm before transitioning into affecting southern Appalachian territories significantly through severe flooding rains accompanied by strong winds that downed trees along various power lines extending all the way into Western North Carolina mountains.
This catastrophic impact not only disrupted daily life but also prompted a quick activation of numerous response units readying them across state boundaries.
For inquiries related specifically to media coverage or any additional information regarding ongoing operations by ARNORTH amidst this crisis event; please reach out directly via their Public Affairs office at 210-247-8852 or through email: usarmy.jbsa.arnorth.mbx.pao@army.mil For visual documentation such as photos or videos related visit our official platform: DVIDS Hub – ARNORTH.
Conclusion
The commitment exhibited by U.S Army North during this time reflects not just military readiness but an overarching responsibility towards communities affected by crises like hurricanes—weaving together federal assistance seamlessly meant for rebuilding stronger paths towards recovery while standing resolute against nature’s unpredictability.
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Date Taken: October 4, 2024
Date Posted: October 4, 2024
Story ID: 482568
Location: TEXAS, US
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