30 August, 2017
Members of the 136th Airlift Wing, Texas Air National Guard, stationed at the Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base, were called to state active duty to support the relief efforts of Hurricane Harvey in southern Texas, Aug. 28. The equipment allows civilian first responders to communicate with military assets on the ground.
The airmen will fly to Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio before standing by for instructions on how they can assist in the Houston area.
The Pave Hawks and Guardian Angels will be tasked with missions to support the Texas National Guard and the state of Texas with search and rescue efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and as ongoing storm conditions continue to inflict damage.
Wolf said the airmen, who are part of a unique mobile communications team, will assist Texas with securing and reestablishing any downed satellite or cell phone communications systems.
Due to their unique capabilities, they have been called upon to assist with the rescue of thousands of civilians worldwide during catastrophic natural disasters and other humanitarian response. Pennsylvania is ready and willing to offer any support needs for those affected by this historic natural disaster.
General Janson D. Boyles, the Adjutant General of MS, says the soldiers and airmen will be there as long as they're needed.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by Hurricane Harvey and with those supporting the disaster relief efforts", Carrelli said.