Army Reserve assets activated in support of relief efforts

FORT BRAGG, N.C. – The Army Reserve is immediately mobilizing three tactical water distribution units to aid with hurricane relief efforts in areas affected by Hurricane Sandy.

This will be the first time that U.S. Army Reserve Soldiers have been activated for a domestic natural disaster under the National Defense Authorization Act of 2012, which streamlined the process for Federal Reserve forces to mobilize in support of relief efforts within local communities.

At the direction of U.S. Northern Command, the 401st, 410th, and 431st Quartermaster Teams, from Lock Haven, Penn., Gainesville, Fla., and Kinston, N.C., respectively, will activate and report to Joint Base Dix/McGuire/Lakehurst, N.J. for allocation to the affected areas. The units each consist of about 25 soldiers and each unit is designed to operate six 600 gallon per minute water pumps.

“Our condolences go out to those that have lost loved ones or suffered damage to their homes and businesses in the storm,” said Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Talley, Commander, Army Reserve.

“The Army Reserve is providing units to support first responders and our fellow Americans. These are skilled Army Reserve soldiers that live and serve in communities across America to include the areas affected by Hurricane Sandy, and we stand ready to provide additional support as needed.”

While performing hurricane relief support, the Army Reserve units will fall under the joint command of the respective affected area.

The Army Reserve is able to leverage both military and civilian skills of its soldiers in disaster responses. With its nationwide presence, the Army Reserve is uniquely positioned to assist local officials in relief efforts throughout the country. The Army Reserve provides trained and ready Soldiers and cohesive units to meet mission requirements.

Please contact Lt. Col. Matthew Lawrence at (910)570-8329, or Maj. Angel Wallace at (910)570-8330, or email at matthew.lawrence@usar.army.mil or angel.wallace@usar.army.mil for more information.