Photo By Ching Oettel | Members of Florida National Guard CBRN Enhanced Response Force Package prepare to help...... read more read more
PINELLAS PARK, FLA – As one storm barrels towards Florida’s panhandle, another is gearing up to move. Approximately 1,200 Soldiers of the 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team have already been activated and are preparing to assist local and state law enforcement.
“As the largest brigade in the state, we are the lead effort for this mission,” said Lt. Col Julio Acosta, commander of the 53rd Infantry Brigade. “We have trained for this and we are prepared for humanitarian assistance, security operations, search and rescue, and more.”
From the Panhandle to Miami, 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team has units spread throughout the state of Florida.
Hurricane Michael has been described as the most destructive storm to hit Northwest Florida in decades.
"Hurricane Michael is a monstrous storm," said Florida Gov. Rick Scott, at a Tuesday news conference, adding that it could bring "total devastation to parts of our state, especially in the Panhandle."
“In addition to what Florida can do to help recovery efforts, we can bring in an additional 30,000 personnel from other states through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC),” said Acosta.
Members of the 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team have been preparing for the storm since Scott declared a state of emergency on Monday, but the Florida is not alone.
"We have vehicles, equipment and manpower ready. If you need us, we are always there," the Alabama National Guard said on its Facebook page.
“We are part of a total team effort with local, state and federal agencies. Our partnerships with emergency officials ensure that our response efforts are coordinated,” said Acosta.
| Date Taken: | 10.10.2018 |
| Date Posted: | 10.10.2018 18:28 |
| Story ID: | 295960 |
| Location: | PINELLAS PARK, FL, US |
| Hometown: | PINELLAS PARK, FL, US |
| Hometown: | ST. PETERSBURG, FL, US |
| Hometown: | TAMPA, FL, US |
| Web Views: | 505 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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