NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The 118th Wing is applying its expertise to aid the islands of Abaco and Grand Bahamas by assessing the condition of its airfields and hospitals for access in the wake of Hurricane Dorian, which struck the island nation September 1.
The 118th Intel Group is providing humanitarian relief support using commercial satellite imagery and off-the-shelf technology from commercial open sources. This technology helps identify safe routes from airfields to distribution centers, medical facilities, schools, hotels, and freshwater sources.
Imagery and analysis products provided by the 118th Intel Group include damage assessments and condition reports on infrastructure, in addition to identifying potential hazardous material concerns. The group also provides products on flood areas to help with relief efforts.
The 118th Intel Group is no stranger to providing imagery analysis and humanitarian support, having also responded to Hurricanes Harvey and Maria in 2017, and the Gatlinburg, Tennessee wildfires in 2016.
“The 118th Wing is always ready to provide support and aid to those in need,” said Lt. Col. Aaron Wilson, 118th Intel Group commander. “Our hearts and prayers go out to all those affected by this hurricane. I am proud of our Airmen for their tireless efforts to respond in the affected areas and from right here in Nashville, Tennessee. This is what we train for. This is why America has a National Guard. To save lives at home, to fight our Nation’s wars and to build partnerships. We are here to help.”