The Florida National Guard faced a demanding period from late September to early October as it responded to two major hurricanes, Helene and Milton. Hurricane Helene struck Florida's Big Bend region on September 26, 2024, prompting the activation of nearly 4,100 troops for emergency operations. As these efforts unfolded, the Guard prepared for another storm, Hurricane Milton.
Troops were deployed across Florida for post-landfall operations and stationed in operation centers to coordinate support. The response extended beyond state lines following an Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) request from North Carolina after Hurricane Helene passed through.
Lt. Col. Brian Cooper explained the importance of EMACs: "The role of the Guard in an EMAC situation is really a force multiplier." This agreement allowed Florida's aviation units to assist North Carolina by supporting their National Guard and civilian agencies during recovery efforts.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Ashley Smith emphasized the significance of their mission: “As a National Guard member, we're trained and prepared for missions like this.” Smith was involved in both Florida and North Carolina operations related to Hurricane Helene.
Within 24 hours of beginning its EMAC mission, the Florida National Guard's 1-111th Aviation Regiment delivered over 20,000 pounds of supplies via aerial resupply missions from Asheville Regional Airport to Mitchell High School.
This operation marked a historic moment for the Florida National Guard; it was their first EMAC deployment since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Lt. Col. Cooper remarked on its uniqueness: “This one was historic because of the size and nature of this hurricane.”
As preparations began for Hurricane Milton's landfall, Florida needed to withdraw its resources from North Carolina under the EMAC agreement. Despite these challenges, the framework provided by EMAC ensures that states can support each other effectively during disasters.
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