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Rescue assets preposition for Hurricane Irma relief

  • Published
  • By 23rd Wing Public Affairs
  • 23rd Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. (AFNS) --  Moody Air Force Base aircraft and rescue assets relocated to Columbus AFB, Mississippi, Sept. 9, 2017, before Hurricane Irma’s arrival.

The aircraft and rescue assets will remain at Columbus AFB before re-engaging with other Moody AFB assets to assist the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and other first responder agencies, during upcoming Hurricane Irma relief operations in the Southeast.

“It allows for a more efficient deployment of resources,” said Staff Sgt. Travis Harrelson, 23rd Civil Engineer Squadron emergency manager.

With assets postured farther west, resources can be utilized in the relief effort sooner, Harrelson explained.

“We want to make sure that vital rescue assets are available for post-recovery actions,” said Master Sgt. Terri Adams, 23rd CES emergency management section chief. “We’re ensuring they are in a safe ride-out location so that they can launch as soon as the recovery order is given.”

Similarly to what occurred less than two weeks ago with Hurricane Harvey, rescue assets and Airmen from the 23rd Wing have been tasked to support Hurricane Irma relief operations.