RICHMOND, Va. – The Virginia National Guard has staged approximately 60 Soldiers and 20 vehicles in the northwest area of the state to help respond to the impact of heavy snow along the I-81 and I-66 corridors on Dec. 16.
Expected missions for the VNG include using Humvees and light/medium tactical trucks to transport first responders through deep snow or help evacuate citizens in need of shelter. Guard members are also equipped with chainsaws to clear roads of debris if necessary.
“I am incredibly proud of how quickly and safely our personnel responded to the call to stage for possible winter storm response operations,” said Maj. Gen. Timothy P. Williams, the adjutant general of Virginia. “Our men and women leave their families and their jobs on short notice so they can be available for duty, and I thank them for their dedication. Our state partners count on us to provide the capabilities requested by Virginia communities, and we are honored to be part of the multi-agency team helping our fellow Virginians in times of need.”
Soldiers assigned to the Staunton-based 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team have Soldiers staged in the Staunton, Winchester and Warrenton readiness centers and prepared to assist communities if needed. Additional Soldiers, Airmen and Virginia Defense Force members are providing mission command, sustainment and public information support.
Gov. Ralph Northam declared a state of emergency on Dec. 15, authorizing the VNG’s mobilization to support any response and recovery efforts.
During domestic operations, the VNG receives missions from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and responds as part of a multi-agency team with the Virginia State Police, the Virginia Department of Transportation and other state and local agencies.
People affected by severe weather who need assistance should contact local authorities or 911 in cases of emergency.