The Oregon National Guard mobilized the 125th Special Tactics Squadron Dec. 3 to assist first responders in the rescue of citizens of Vernonia. By the time the mission was completed, between 200 and 400 residents had been evacuated by the 125th STS.
Due to extreme weather conditions and obstacles on the ground, rescue by air was too risky. The 125th STS, with support from the 141st Support Battalion, arrived in Vernonia overnight and quickly deployed four Zodiac boats. Making their way through the flooded streets and residences of Vernonia, the National Guard members brought welcome relief.
The Oregon National Guard continues to support response and recovery efforts in the wake of sever winter storms that struck the Pacific Northwest.
Areas hardest hit by the storm have asked for generators, water, and assistance with getting supplies. The Guard is working closely with state agencies and private organizations like the Red Cross to move equipment and supplies to where they're needed most.
Oregon Gov. Theodore R. Kulongoski said the state will support first responders and assist with providing immediate needs such as medical care, shelter and food. In addition, he noted that schools which were partially submerged by record floodwaters in Vernonia will need a great deal of assistance during the recovery process if they are to continue providing educational services to their students.
This is an overview of the type of support the Oregon National Guard has provided or continues to provide to areas suffering from the effects of recent winter storms:
- Rescue operations on the water by Zodiac boats (Vernonia) and from the air by UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters (southwest Washington)
- Transporting Red Cross supplies to the Columbia County Emergency Operations Center
- Overnight shelter to about 50 people at Camp Rilea and meals to approximately 160 people throughout the day
- Transportation support with high-profile vehicles
- Transportation and maintenance of two 60KW generators to Vernonia
- Transportation for veterinarians in Columbia County/Vernonia