NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — While the U.S. Army is sending hundreds of soldiers from Fort Campbell to provide assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, nearly as many Tennessee National Guardsmen are continuing to support first responders amid cleanup and recovery efforts.
The Army’s 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) announced that more than 500 of its soldiers were departing Fort Campbell on Saturday, Oct. 5 in order to help with Helene response efforts led by the North Carolina National Guard and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
According to officials, the soldiers — described as part of Task Force Falcon — are equipped with more 60 all-terrain vehicles and trained to perform various tasks that civilian authorities might request, including search and rescue, medical aid, route assessment and clearance, traffic control, warehouse management, supply distribution, debris removal, general transportation, and equipment maintenance.
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“We are proud to support this effort and help American citizens in times of need,” said Lt. Col. Walt Gray, Task Force Falcon commander. “Our training prepares us to respond quickly in challenging situations, and this mission highlights the importance of that preparation.”
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[Courtesy: 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault)] -
[Courtesy: 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault)] -
[Courtesy: 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault)]
In addition, the division said it is sending more than 15 utility and cargo helicopters and crews for personnel and logistics movement…