Alaska Organized Militia races against winter in Western Alaska

Courtesy Photo | Alaska Organized Militia members assigned to Task Force Bethel continue recovery efforts, including retrieving boats the storm washed away and clearing debris at Chefornak, Alaska, Oct. 21, 2025. Small vessels are vital in many affected communities, serving both as essential transportation and harvesting tools. AKOM continues coordinated response operations in support of the State Emergency Operation Center following the 2025 West Coast Storm as the mission focus, pursuant to Governor Dunleavy's declaration of disaster, shifts from lifesaving to life sustainment and stabilization of communities and survivors. (Courtesy photo)  

BETHEL, ALASKA, UNITED STATES

10.22.2025

Courtesy Story

Alaska National Guard   

BETHEL, Alaska — It is a race against time as winter closes in on communities impacted by Western Alaska Storm 2025.

Alaska Organized Militia (AKOM) members were rapidly deployed as soon as conditions allowed to support rescue efforts, assess damage, and begin early recovery operations.

“We will continue to evacuate as the need arises,” said Task Force Bethel Commander Col. (AK) John James. “Our focus now is on small debris removal and what can be accomplished as we continue to request more support and supplies.”

As the response shifts from immediate rescue to winterization and recovery, AKOM members are working alongside state, federal, tribal, and volunteer agencies to confront a rising challenge: restoring essential services and preparing communities to withstand subzero temperatures and heavy snowfall. Teams are now operating across multiple villages to assess damage, clear debris, and assist with community-driven winter preparation plans.

In Napakiak, several homes in lower-lying areas were moved off their foundations. Power outages lasting several days caused residents to lose food stored in freezers, including smoked salmon, moose meat, and berries intended to sustain families through winter.

“We live a subsistence lifestyle,” said Walter Nelson, a Napakiak leader. “Some of our homes have lost all their winter food storage.”

In Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, severe damage to elevated board-road systems has hindered mobility within the villages. Storm surge displaced sections of roadway hundreds of yards, and in some cases miles, from their original locations. AKOM engineers are relying on ingenuity and working with limited village equipment to reposition the elevated board-road systems, restoring access to homes, clinics, and public buildings.

Nearby Oscarville and Napaskiak are experiencing debris, trash, and sewage issues, and assessments are currently underway to determine the level of support required for cleanup and restoration.

The coming weeks will test the skills of AKOM members across multiple specialties, including engineering, logistics, and sanitation. Working alongside volunteer organizations and local leadership, they continue to assist local leadership within the communities as they prepare for winter.

“I’m so glad to see you here,” said Alexi Michaels, a Napakiak resident. “It makes my heart happy to know you are here for our communities and our people.”

• Date Taken: 10.22.2025
• Date Posted: 10.22.2025 18:23
• Story ID: 550321
• Location: BETHEL, ALASKA, US