Governor Hochul Sends Troops and Resources to Aid Southern States Affected by Hurricane Helene

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Written By Blue & Gold NLR Team

 

 

Governor Kathy Hochul announced today the deployment of 17 soldiers from the Army National Guard, three CH-47F Chinook heavy lift helicopters, and four 100 KW generators to support recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene.

The storm has wreaked havoc, leaving millions without power across the South, including Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.

New York stands shoulder to shoulder with our neighbors in the south as we respond to the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene, Governor Hochul stated.

I am proud of our dedicated soldiers who will supply vital resources, including helicopters and generators, to aid in recovery efforts.

In times of crisis, we come together as one community, embodying the spirit of solidarity and resilience.

We are here to support all those affected, ensuring that no one faces this challenge alone.

The soldiers and helicopters are stationed at Army Aviation Support Facility 2 in Rochester, and they are expected to assist the North Carolina National Guard for seven to ten days.

The helicopters will provide general airlift support, moving people and cargo to areas in need.

The generators, part of New York’s state stockpiles, are being transported to Macon, Georgia, on trucks supplied by the Department of Transportation and the Thruway Authority, with expected arrival on Monday.

Major General Ray Shields emphasized the quick response from the National Guard, saying, At the direction of Governor Hochul, the men and women of the 42nd Infantry Division’s Combat Aviation Brigade quickly responded, in less than 24 hours, when the North Carolina National Guard asked for assistance for storm relief.

Our Soldiers are always ready to respond, whether in a combat zone or during a natural disaster.

On Wednesday, Governor Hochul deployed a team of 16 swift water rescue personnel, two canines, and emergency response equipment to North Carolina, currently assisting the Yancy County Emergency Management Office.

Commissioner of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Jackie Bray highlighted the extensive resources required for recovery from such disasters, noting the importance of sharing equipment and expertise to support impacted communities.

State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez reflected on the reciprocal nature of emergency support: Two years ago, a number of states came to the aid of New York in the wake of a historic snowstorm in Buffalo.

Today, Governor Hochul is paying these kindnesses forward to the citizens of Georgia, who have been severely impacted by Hurricane Helene.

Thruway Authority Executive Director Frank G. Hoare acknowledged the extensive devastation in the Southeast, stating, The generators that our crews will deliver will help our neighbors to the south begin the road to recovery and bring some sense of normalcy.

This mobilization reflects New York’s commitment to supporting neighboring states in times of crisis, emphasizing the shared responsibility and cooperation necessary to navigate such challenging circumstances.

 

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