Chattanooga, TN – According to the state officials,Tennessee Guardsmen are currently providing round-the-clock ground and aerial rescue and relief support.
Since the flooding began, servicemembers from the 1-230th Assault Helicopter Battalion, stationed at Knoxville’s Joint Base McGhee-Tyson and Nashville’s Berry Field, have rescued over 100 citizens and transported more than 34,000 pounds of supplies, including drinking water, food, generators, and other essential equipment.
In addition, the battalion has completed 11 reconnaissance missions to survey critical infrastructure such as dams, bridges, and roadways.
In the cleanup efforts, more than 50 engineers and 30 vehicles from Trenton’s 230th Engineer Battalion and Knoxville’s 134th Air Refueling Wing are conducting debris removal in Carter, Greene, Unicoi, and Washington counties.
Staged in Johnson City, they are using heavy equipment like bulldozers, dump trucks, and skid steer loaders to clear roads and essential areas. Another group of 50 engineers from West Tennessee is also en route to provide additional assistance.
Task Force 176, comprised of Guardsmen from the 176th Combat Service Support Battalion, is stationed in Johnson City, utilizing over 30 tactical vehicles to transport personnel and supplies.
They have established a supply distribution center and delivered water buffalos for showers and latrines. The ongoing efforts continue to focus on providing vital support to those affected by the severe flooding.