Troops from Maine, Vermont join Massachusetts in snow removal

AUGUSTA, Maine - The Maine Army National Guard is sending nearly 80 troops along with heavy equipment to assist Massachusetts in its snow removal from the historic dump of snow on coastal towns.

Maine Gov. Paul R. LePage and Brig. Gen. James D. Campbell, the adjutant general of the Maine National Guard, both approved the request for equipment and assistance to Massachusetts, which came through the Maine Emergency Management Agency.

“Our neighbors in Massachusetts are in need of our assistance, and the Maine National Guard is ready, willing and able to help,” Gov. LePage said. “It is during these difficult times that our service members rise to the occasion and give their support to those who need it most. I commend our men and women who are taking part in this effort and wish them a safe return home.”

The Maine troops join about 500 from the Massachusetts National Guard and about 40 from Vermont.Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker declared a state of emergency Monday, to allow emergency officials to begin enacting the mutual aid process with neighboring states and the private sector to secure much needed heavy equipment for snow removal.

Soldiers and equipment from the 185th Engineer Support Company, the 262nd Engineer Company (Horizontal) and the 136th Engineer Company (Vertical) will move south with dump trucks and loaders to assist in snow removal.

The request for assistance came through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), a mutual aid agreement among all 50 states.

“The Commonwealth has been hit by historic storms and unprecedented snowfall, posing challenges for cities and towns struggling with clean up,” said Baker.

“After three major storms in two weeks and multiple discussions with MEMA, state police and the National Guard, we have deployed 500 National Guardsmen to dig out fire hydrants and other critical assets. We have also secured heavy equipment from the Vermont National Guard and purchased additional snow melters to assist communities in need. It has been a difficult winter for the people of Massachusetts, but we encourage everyone to remain patient and help shovel sidewalks, driveways, and safely clear roofs. Our goal is to help all municipalities safely return to working order as quickly as possible.”