CRANSTON, RI – The Rhode Island National Guard is mobilizing three C-130Js to assist in Hurricane Dorian relief efforts in the Bahamas. The three aircraft will each be equipped with a full crew and maintainers. They will depart from Quonset Air National Guard Base on September 6th.
The Rhode Island National Guard shares a special connection to the Bahamas through the National Guard’s State Partnership Program. Through this partnership, the RING and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force have worked alongside each other since 2005 in a joint training capacity. Prior training efforts have focused on disaster preparedness, cybersecurity, civil disturbance, engineering, medical, and aviation capabilities.
Governor Gina Raimondo and Major General Christopher Callahan, Adjutant General of the Rhode Island National Guard, welcome the opportunity for Rhode Island to support relief efforts in the Bahamas.
“The Rhode Island National Guard is always prepared to provide support in times of crisis. Due to the nature of our partnership, we are well equipped to assist the people of the Bahamas during this time. We share a unique bond with the Bahamians, so we are especially thankful for the opportunity to help them in the wake of Hurricane Dorian,” said Major General Callahan.