COLUMBIA, S.C. - As South Carolina recovers from the recent floods, Soldiers with the South Carolina National Guards 125th Multi-Role Bridge Company (MRBC) have helped in many ways. Since coming on state active duty orders Oct. 4, they have provided transportation and delivery of more than 5,000 one-ton and small sand bags along with 33,000 tons of gravel throughout the state.
Additionally, they have also conducted search and reconnaissance missions with Charleston county first responders. On Oct. 21, a team of 26 Soldiers began clearing debris from the Columbia Canal.
"We are here to support civilian contractors," said Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Collins, 2nd Platoon sergeant for the 125th MRBC."We have four boats and two rafts in the canal to help clean debris and trees that have clogged canal pipes and freeing of stuff that can cause further damage down the road."
Spc. Stephen Gragg, a bridge commander and boat operator for the 125th, added,"Having the opportunity to help the folks in Columbia is a great feeling. Knowing that my mission within the Guard is also helpful to our state in its time of need is encouraging and fulfilling."
"I have been working here at the canal since Oct. 4," Gragg said."When we first got here, we delivered and helped emplace the one-ton sand bags to restore banks of the canal because whirlpools were quickly destroying them. I knew the sand bags were essential to prevent further breaching of the canal."
"We have helped restore fresh water to the thousands of people affected by the flood," said Gragg."Im proud to be part of this recovery mission."