von MILFORD, Mass., Oct. 31, 2011 — Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick mobilized the National Guard on Oct. 29 in response to a severe snowstorm that impacted the commonwealth’s central and western regions, and other parts of New England.
About 392 Guard members are on duty in Massachusetts, parts of which had received nearly two feet of snow, National Guard Bureau officials said. About 40 Guard members were called up for duty in Connecticut and a dozen in New Hampshire, officials said.
In Massachusetts, the Guard is assisting the commonwealth’s Emergency Management Agency in general relief efforts.
Guard members are providing support to civil authorities in response to the aftermath of the winter storm, officials said, in order to save lives, prevent further injury and protect critical infrastructure.
In Massachusetts, priority of aid will be given to communities in the higher elevations of Berkshire, Franklin, Hampshire and Worcester counties. The Guard also is monitoring coastal communities in anticipation of high tidal surge.
“Massachusetts National Guard soldiers and airmen stand ready to assist the citizens of the commonwealth,” said Army Maj. Gen. Joseph C. Carter, the commonwealth’s adjutant general. “I know the dedicated men and women of the Massachusetts National Guard are eager to put their training and skills to good use.”
The Massachusetts National Guard’s Task Force Patriot is providing command and control of soldiers, airmen and equipment from the 51st Troop Command, 151st Regional Support Group, 126th Brigade Support Battalion, 211th Military Police Battalion, 101st Engineer Battalion, 65th Public Affairs Operations Center, 104th Fighter Wing, 102nd Intelligence Wing and the 267th Combat Communications Squadron.
Source:
U.S. Department of Defense
Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)
