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According to Task Force All American Lift company commander Capt. Peter Schlatter, the convoy was comprised of 113 vehicles and 236 personnel from different elements of the 82nd Airborne Division.
The task force started its mission from Fort Bragg, North Carolina covering more than 580 miles before reaching Lakeland, Florida. Because of the resiliency and adaptability of the 82nd paratroopers, the convoy reached its destination in short time ready to provide relief and support efforts with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the state of Florida.
"It took some time to maneuver through some of the storm-stricken roads and city streets,” said Schlatter. “The leaders in charge of the vehicles ensured there were no accidents and once we got to the highways we were good to go.”
Upon arrival at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport, the paratroopers jumped into action to help clean up the facilities. The Paratroopers assisted civilian workers with removing debris, fallen trees, and clearing roads and paths.
“It's great being able to help out the people here,” said Spc. Jonathan Smith, assigned to the 151st quartermaster company, 189th Sustainment Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division.
The 82nd paratroopers also had the opportunity to work with the non-profit organization Aerobridge, unloading and reloading supplies onto various aircraft. Aerobridge assists in times of emergency by coordinating donated aircraft and emergency response teams. The teams provide humanitarian aid and supplies to people in need without any government funding.
“Over three thousand pounds of cargo was unloaded from the semi and was flown down to Homestead, Florida where it will then make its way to the Florida Keys," said Michael Burwell, the head of ground movement with Aerobridge.
“We had volunteers not show up today that was supposed to help unload a semi from the Salvation Army," said Burwell. "Thankfully the 82nd stepped up to assist. We really appreciate the 82nd showing up and doing all that they did for us.”
| Date Taken: | 09.15.2017 |
| Date Posted: | 09.17.2017 10:06 |
| Story ID: | 248572 |
| Location: | FL, US |
| Web Views: | 69 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Task Force All American Lift assist Florida state, by SGT William Brown, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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