FORT BRAGG, N.C. –
Army Reserve Soldiers from the 79th Quartermaster Company, based in Houston, began emergency evacuation operations, responding to the immediate needs of area residents affected by yesterday’s Hurricane Harvey damage.
The Army Reserve answered an Immediate Response Authority request from Chief Jackie Metcalf of Aldine Fire Department, Harris County Emergency District 24. This request for assistance mitigated human suffering in the area caused by rising floodwaters.
The 79th QMC immediately responded to the request, utilizing the Army Reserve’s Immediate Response Authority, per the 2012 National Defense Authorization Act, while providing trained and ready Army Reserve Soldiers for relief efforts.
The 79th QMC and Aldine Fire Department, utilizing military wheeled vehicles with water fording capabilities, have transported over 500 people and 50 pets to designated safe areas.
The majority of evacuees consisted of children, elderly and disabled citizens located within a 5-mile radius of the Army Reserve Center. At this time, the 79th QMC continues evacuation efforts with the Aldine Fire Department.
America's Army Reserve is the most capable, combat-ready and lethal Federal Reserve force in the history of the Nation. America’s Army Reserve provides capabilities critical to DSCA response, including search and rescue, aviation, engineer, transportation, medical and communications support. America’s Army Reserve has Soldiers and equipment in more than 1,100 communities across the nation allowing immediate respond to local emergencies. We stand with our nation in support of our neighbors and our primary concern is their safety and well-being.
Media wishing to interview any Army Reserve Soldier please contact Capt. Chad Nixon, Deputy Chief of Army Reserve Media Relations, at 910-570-8336 or chad.m.nixon.mil@mail.mil.