FORT BUCHANAN, Puerto Rico – The Puerto Rico Army National Guard rescued multiple people in areas flooded by Tropical Storm Ernesto Aug. 14.
Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi activated the Guard Aug. 12 to support local and federal humanitarian relief efforts.
U.S. Citizen-Soldiers assigned to the 125th Military Police Battalion (Task Force South) and the Indian Company of the 1-296th Infantry Regiment (Task Force West), both from the 92nd Military Police Brigade, Puerto Rico Army National Guard, conducted successful rescue missions in areas affected by the storm.
“The commitment of our Citizen-Soldiers to the safety and well-being of our community is unwavering,” said Maj. Gen. Miguel A. Mendez, adjutant general of Puerto Rico. “These rescue missions reflect the spirit of service that characterizes the Puerto Rico National Guard, always ready to respond to the call in the most critical moments.”
The 125th Military Police Battalion supported Mayor Marlese Sifre, Ponce Municipality, in the rescue of residents of Buyones and Tiburones who were trapped by river flooding.
Soldiers assigned to the India Company, 1-296th Infantry Regiment, rescued 10 people stranded on the border of Cabo Rojo and Hormigueros Municipalities due to the flooding of another river. Those rescued included personnel from the Cabo Rojo Emergency Management Office and LUMA Energy, a local power company.
These actions demonstrate the PRARNG’s responsiveness and commitment to protecting and serving the island in emergencies.