An official website of the United States government
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Home : News : Article View
NEWS | May 20, 2020

Michigan Guard helps evacuate flood victims

By Capt. Andrew Layton and Lt. Col. Kathryn Prater Michigan National Guard

MIDLAND, Mich. – Michigan National Guard units from Bay City, Saginaw, Port Huron and other nearby communities early Wednesday helped evacuate people threatened by massive flooding in the Midland area resulting from the breach of the Edenville and Sanford Dams.

After the Michigan State Police (MSP) requested assistance, about 130 Soldiers and more than 40 specialized vehicles arrived. The National Guard began missions at 4 a.m. May 20, evacuating citizens, augmenting emergency planners and preparing logistical support.

For the mission, the Michigan National Guard was using assets such as Light Medium Tactical Vehicles (LMTVs) that can drive through high water. More than 200 Soldiers and additional equipment were to arrive throughout the day, with additional Guard members on standby with capabilities for aviation, rescue hoist and logistical support.

“Our priority is supporting the state of Michigan’s response to this situation and ensuring the safety and well-being of Michigan citizens,” said Maj. Gen. Paul Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “Members of the Michigan National Guard are trained to respond at a moment’s notice when their skills are called upon. Their professionalism is another reassuring example of the Guard’s mission as ‘Michiganders helping Michiganders.’”

Guard members will mitigate the risk of COVID-19 spread during this emergency response, using carefully supervised medical protocols, including pre-screening, mission-appropriate face covering, social distancing and sanitizing equipment.

The Guard has also been integrated into the state’s emergency response for COVID-19 since it was activated by the governor March 18. Almost 1,000 Michigan National Guard members are supporting COVID-19 response missions across the state, part of a nationwide National Guard response of almost 46,000 troops.

 

 

Related Articles
Pfc. Lydia Humphrey, 1073rd Maintenance Company, Michigan Army National Guard, assists Anita Wheeler from Midland, Michigan, as the Guard responds to flooding caused by dam breaches May 20, 2020. Michigan National Guard units from Bay City, Saginaw, Port Huron and other nearby communities helped evacuate people.
Michigan National Guard responds to flooded communities
By Master Sgt. David Eichaker | May 22, 2020
MIDLAND, Mich. – The Michigan National Guard helped rescue residents threatened by flooding in northern Michigan caused by the breaching of the Edenville and Sanford dams.“Right now, we have three units staged in various...

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. John Hackley and Sgt. Jeffrey Coleman, both truck drivers, Alpha Company, 186th Brigade Support Battalion, 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain), Vermont Army National Guard, help unload water, Marshfield, Vt., July 13, 2023. Alpha Company was activated to assist the state of Vermont after flooding occurred throughout the state.
Vermont National Guard Delivers Water as Part of Flood Relief
By 1st Lt. Nathan Rivard, | July 17, 2023
BERLIN, Vt. – In response to the recent floods that struck several towns in Vermont, 186th Brigade Support Battalion Soldiers stepped up to provide critical aid. On July 13-14, the battalion delivered approximately 70,000...

The Vermont National Guard Soldiers' quick reaction force worked with North Carolina and Massachusetts urban search and rescue teams to rescue and relocate 27 people and their pets in Cambridge. The Vermont National Guard was activated to support Vermont Emergency Management in response to flooding from heavy storms.
Vermont Guard and Rescue Teams Assist in Flood Response Efforts
By Sgt. Denis Nunez, | July 12, 2023
CAMBRIDGE, Vt. – The Vermont National Guard Soldiers’ quick reaction force worked with North Carolina and Massachusetts urban search and rescue teams to rescue and relocate 27 people and their pets in Cambridge.U.S. Army 1st...