New Castle – At approximately 4pm today, the Delaware National Guard launched a C-130 aircraft to Texas to help support evacuation efforts for those affected by Hurricane Harvey. In addition, staff officers from Delaware are enroute to the National Guard Bureau Joint Operations Center near Washington, D.C., to assist in both the Intelligence and Operations sections.
Because the event is out of state, the Delaware National Guard is assisting via the Emergency Management Assistance Compact and in close coordination with the Delaware Emergency Management Agency and National Guard Bureau. To ensure constant communication and situational awareness, the Delaware National Guard Joint Operations Center is being staffed 24/7 until the event is complete.
“We continue to monitor the situation and lean forward so we are ready to support at a moment’s notice,” said Maj. Gen. Carol Timmons, Adjutant General, Delaware National Guard. “The National Guard is unique because we have the dual mission of conducting the overseas warfight and supporting the homeland. Our troops have extensive experience in both missions.”
While there are only ten Delaware Guardsmen currently deployed, the 166th Airlift Wing flies the C-130H model aircraft and is prepared to provide up to four aircraft and crews in the Gulf Region if needed. Additionally, the 142nd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron is on standby as the unit is comprised of flight nurses and medical technicians. These Airmen and women are some of the most experienced in the country and are one of the most-deployed units in the Air Force inventory.
Depending on the duration and needs of the support, the Delaware National Guard is prepared to support additional requests in the communications, engineering, medical, security, aviation, equipment maintenance, and transportation areas.
Source: Delaware Air National Guard
Image Credits: Delaware Air National Guard