As a result of the recent earthquakes in Puerto Rico, Soldiers from the 430th Quartermaster Company, 1st Mission Support Command, moved forward with inspections and checks Jan. 12 in preparation for an eventual activation in support for the displaced residents in the southwestern sector.

“We are ready to support in a moment’s notice,” said 1st Sgt. Walberto Torres, senior noncommissioned officer in the unit.

The 430th Quartermaster Company unit is prepared to provide shower and laundry service to thousands of individuals.

“With our capabilities, we can provide shower and laundry services to all the displaced citizens,” added Torres.

The 1st Mission Support Command, the Army Reserve's command in Puerto Rico, includes substantial capabilities vital in disaster response and stands ready to support lead agencies for domestic emergencies and disaster relief efforts.

“Yesterday, we conducted an initial assessment of the areas we could potentially serve. Today, we are loading all the equipment and getting ready to roll. This action will allow us to have a faster response, once we get the mission assignment,” said Torres.

Title 10 USC Section 12304a authorizes the Army Reserve to provide disaster assistance to a major natural disaster or emergency in the United States at the request of the governor of a state.

“If the local authorities need federal military assistance, there is no need to wait for resources to arrive from outside Puerto Rico. Our command is already here on the island, prepositioned and ready to assist immediately,” said Brig. Gen. Jeffrey W. Jurasek, senior federal Army officer in the Caribbean.

With approximately 5,000 soldiers, the Army Reserve has units in Aguadilla, Mayaguez, Yauco, Ponce, Juana Diaz, Ceiba, Salinas, Puerto Nuevo, Virgin Islands, and headquarters at Fort Buchanan.