JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska — The Alaska National Guard assists local, state and federal authorities with search and rescue efforts after a landslide Dec. 2 in Haines, Alaska, due to extreme weather, heavy rainfall and flooding during a record-breaking Southeast Alaska winter storm.
An Alaska Army National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter provided transportation Dec. 3-4 from Juneau to Haines for the Alaska State Troopers, three search dog teams, and Juneau Mountain Rescue members, Capital Fire and Rescue, the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, and other partner agencies.
Passengers dropped off in Haines assisted with ground search and rescue operations, while aircrew conducted aerial observation from the aircraft with additional personnel's assistance.
The aircrew from Alaska's 1st Battalion, 207th Aviation Regiment transported 1,200 pounds of cargo, including medical supplies, rescue gear and water.
All personnel was rapid COVID tested before flying into Haines.
The National Guard is the first military responder for domestic emergencies and disasters, assisting local, state and federal authorities.