Alabama National Guard Deployed to Aid Post-Hurricane Recovery in Florida and North Carolina

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey announced on Thursday that the state will deploy the National Guard to assist in recovery operations in Florida and North Carolina, following the impact of Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene, respectively. The deployment is part of a broader effort to provide disaster relief and support to neighboring states.

The governor specified that a 57-person Type III Urban Search & Rescue Task Force will be dispatched to Florida. This team will focus on providing critical search and rescue services in the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. To support North Carolina, a 16-person team from the 20th Special Forces Group will be sent to help with the recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. Additionally, members of the 169th Aviation Regiment, along with two CH-47 Chinook helicopters, have been activated to assist in the ongoing recovery operations.

“Alabamians do not hesitate to lend help when our neighbors are in need. I am proud we have the Alabama National Guard and first responders supporting the efforts in both North Carolina and Florida,” Governor Ivey stated. “I pray for the safety of our Alabama Guard, first responders, linemen, and other volunteers, and I pray for all the states recovering from these devastating hurricanes.”

Alabama National Guard Adjutant General David Pritchett emphasized the commitment of the Guard members in aiding disaster-stricken communities. “Days like today are why these Soldiers joined the National Guard,” Pritchett remarked. “So many of us have friends and loved ones directly affected by both Helene and Milton. It’s a privilege to put this uniform on and show up when our country, states, and communities need us most. We’re dedicated to providing all the support we can to see these resilient communities bounce back.”

This announcement follows the initial authorization of National Guard members by Governor Ivey several weeks prior, underlining the state’s readiness to respond to natural disasters and support recovery efforts across the nation.