Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided an update on the National Guard’s response to Hurricanes Milton and Helene. For Hurricane Milton, over 1,100 troops and more than 100 high-water vehicles and helicopters from three states are mobilized for the response and recovery mission. The Army Corps of Engineers has about 270 personnel working on various mission assignments related to infrastructure assessment, temporary roof support, debris control, and flood response. In response to Hurricane Helene, about 2,000 National Guard troops from nine states, along with 65 high-water vehicles and eight helicopters, have been mobilized.
The Defense Department is actively engaged with interagency partners to support the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the White House, and state and local governments in response to the hurricanes. Since early this month, active-duty service members have completed over 100 ground missions and 70 air missions, delivering humanitarian aid and clearing roads in North Carolina. As the recovery phase begins, active-duty service members will gradually transition out of the area in coordination with state and local officials, FEMA, and other agencies. The federal mission and support will continue through the National Guard, FEMA, and other federal, state, and local agencies.
Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III commends the selfless service and sacrifice of all DOD service members involved in the hurricane response efforts. While active-duty assets may start heading back to their home stations, the federal support will remain in place to address ongoing needs, rebuild infrastructure, and aid communities in long-term recovery. Additionally, U.S. Strategic Command has commenced its annual nuclear command and control exercise, Global Thunder 25, to enhance nuclear readiness and ensure a safe, secure, and effective strategic deterrent force. This exercise is planned and not in response to any specific events or actions by other nations.
Following his visit to Ukraine, Secretary Austin is currently in Rome and will conclude his week of travel with a visit to the Vatican for a papal engagement before returning to the United States. The Defense Department remains committed to supporting hurricane-affected areas and working with various agencies to ensure a coordinated and effective response to the disasters. Ryder’s update highlights the ongoing efforts of the National Guard, active-duty service members, and interagency partners to assist in the recovery and rebuilding process in the aftermath of Hurricanes Milton and Helene.
