AFPC provides communication link during evacuation

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RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (AFPN) --  As Hurricane Frances blew through Florida, 45th Space Wing officials at Patrick Air Force Base, Fla., relied upon the assistance of Airmen at the personnel readiness center here to keep track of evacuated people.

Once the evacuation was announced Sept. 2, the center’s Airmen prepared for 24-hour operations to respond to callers. Although calls have tapered off, Airmen will continue to man phones until no longer needed.

"With an estimated 15,000-plus military and civilian evacuees departing for more secure locations, the (readiness center) expected a heavy call volume," said Master Sgt. Eric Barnes, noncommissioned officer in charge of the deployed operations section at the Air Force Personnel Center here. "All told, (the readiness center) received about 600 telephone calls (Sept. 2) until (Sept. 6)."

Besides receiving information from the evacuees, the readiness center’s Airmen updated callers on the status at Patrick AFB.

"We received many calls from people eager to return home, assess their damage and begin cleanup actions," Sergeant Barnes said.

As the liaison for the wing commander, center workers are able to inform people when to return.

Should Hurricane Ivan reach the United States or other emergencies arise, Airmen, Department of Defense civilians and their family members can reach the readiness center toll free at (800) 435-9941. (Courtesy of AFPC News Service)