The Department of Defense is mobilizing up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers to aid in Hurricane Helene relief efforts at the request of FEMA. These soldiers, part of an Infantry Battalion Task Force from the XVIII Airborne Corps, including members of the 82nd Airborne and other units from Fort Liberty, NC, will assist in delivering essential supplies such as food and water to affected communities.
Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder stated that this deployment would bolster FEMA's logistics capabilities to quickly reach the most severely impacted areas. The task force will help distribute supplies, manage logistics at staging locations, and clear debris from routes.
To enhance coordination, Brig. Gen. Charles Morrison has been appointed as the Dual Status Commander for North Carolina by U.S. Northern Command's Gen. Gregory Guillot. This role allows him to oversee both active duty and National Guard troops.
These soldiers are expected to deploy within 24 hours, joining other Department of Defense personnel already assisting FEMA. This includes Army and Navy helicopters for transport in inaccessible areas, Air Force aircraft for search-and-rescue operations, and high wheeled vehicles for navigating damaged roads.
The Army Corps of Engineers is also involved in providing temporary power solutions and expertise in debris removal and infrastructure assessment.
Moreover, over 6,500 National Guardsmen have been activated across 12 states with high water vehicles and rescue equipment to support state-led efforts in mitigating the disaster's impact.
The Department of Defense remains committed to collaborating with FEMA and various government levels to coordinate effective response measures for Hurricane Helene relief.
