Hurricane Michael struck Tyndall Air Force Base as a powerful Category 4 hurricane on Oct. 10, leaving a path of destruction in its wake.
In preparation for the storm, 11,000 Tyndall personnel evacuated. Personnel also stayed behind for immediate response and recovery for the damage. Support from the Air Force and local communities continue to assist Tyndall with recovery operations.
"The folks that weathered the storm - Airmen, civilians, contractors, those that were recalled, have done an amazing job with recovery efforts," said Col. Matthew Jefson, 325th Mission Support Group commander. "We are five days past the storm and we already have some roads cleared and running water."
Multiple units from across the Air Force are providing assistance to Tyndall. Air Force Special Operations Command's Special Tactics Airmen opened the airifield within one day. The Air Force Enlisted Village is serving as the official donation site for relief efforts. Air Combat Command's 823rd Red Horse Squadron dispatched Airmen to assist with rebuilding efforts.
"The units that came within the initial hours to help us with road clearance and communications demonstrated the professionalism we needed," said Jefson. "They came in saying, 'What do you need and how can we help?' They also came in with the capabilities we wanted and took care of us too."
The initial phase of recovery is complete. As Tyndall transitions into the next phase, focus will be placed on getting utilities back online.
"I want to thank our Air Force and local communities for all of the support pouring into our base," said Col. Brian Laidlaw, 325th Fighter Wing commander. "You reminded us once again that you have our backs."
Date Taken: | 10.16.2018 |
Date Posted: | 10.16.2018 12:52 |
Story ID: | 296612 |
Location: | TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, FL, US |
Web Views: | 61 |
Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Team Tyndall recovering from Hurricane Michael, by TSgt Lynette Rolen, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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