ARLINGTON, Va. — In response to a fierce winter storm Sunday, Kansas Army National Guard Soldiers mobilized Stranded Motorists Assistance Response Teams in nine locations.
The SMART teams, which consisted of two High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWVs) and four Guard members, assisted local law enforcement with patrolling impacted roads and assisting with stranded motorists.
Kansas Gov. Jeff Colyer declared a State of Disaster Emergency on Sunday in response to the blizzard working its way across the state. That declaration authorized the ability to use state workers and resources to help response and recovery where needed.
"Here in Kansas we make it a priority to take care of our neighbors," Colyer said in a news release. "We strongly recommend that you postpone travel plans, if possible. However, if you must be on the road, make sure your vehicle's emergency kit is stocked, your gas tank is full and your cell phone and charger are with you and someone knows your travel plans. Also, be mindful of all emergency response personnel out on Kansas roadways and give them space to do their jobs to ensure their safety and that of our citizens."
The Guard members were released from duty on Sunday night, according to Kansas National Guard spokeswoman Jane Welch.
Contributing: Steve Marshall, National Guard Bureau and Kansas National Guard