National Guard Responds to Hurricane Omar

This NOAA satellite image shows Hurricane Omar moving towards Puerto Rico on October 14, 2008.

Hurricane Watch:

ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 16, 2008 -- More than 90 National Guard members in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico are on duty today after Hurricane Omar passed through their area as a major Category 3 storm that caused little damage.

"Take this very seriously," Gov. John deJongh of the U.S. Virgin Islands said yesterday after he activated his National Guard, closed all public schools and imposed a 6 p.m. curfew for all islands.

The National Hurricane Center said the core of the storm with the most intense winds passed between St. Martin and the U.S. Virgin Islands overnight.

The storm knocked down trees and caused some flooding and minor mudslides, but there were no immediate reports of deaths or major damage, Mark Walters, director of the U.S. Virgin Islands disaster management agency, told the Associated Press.

About 75 Guard members are providing communication support in St. Croix, St. Thomas and St. John, and transportation support on St. Croix with three Humvees and two 2.5-ton trucks. They also are manning shelters in St. Croix and St. Thomas.

Aviation assets, including an OH-58 Kiowa helicopter and a C-23 Sherpa turbo-prop airplane, are flying reconnaissance and damage assessment missions on the three islands.

National Guard officials said St. Croix is without power, and St. Thomas and St. John have no power on their north sides. All of the islands are still being hit with heavy rain and strong winds.

Puerto Rico, which was brushed by the storm, has 12 Guard members conducting command and control in the state’s Joint Operations Center.

Yesterday, two UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters from Puerto Rico were used to move rescue and medical personnel to the islands of Vieques and Culebra. One death was reported on Culebra. Authorities say a man collapsed from cardiac arrest while trying to install storm shutters to his house.

Four C-130 Hercules transports from the 156th Airlift Wing in Puerto Rico were evacuated yesterday, with three going to MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., and one going to Homestead Air Reserve Base, Fla. Three are scheduled to return to the island today, with the remaining aircraft scheduled to return tomorrow.

Air National Guard officials are planning at least one mission tomorrow to transport packaged meals from Puerto Rico to the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The National Hurricane Center reported this morning that the storm is moving toward the central Atlantic, away from the U.S. East Coast.

(Story by U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Ellen Krenke, National Guard Bureau.)

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USS Nassau, CPR-6 Head Home After Recovery Efforts in Galveston

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 23, 2008) Beach Master Unit (BMU) 2 departs the beach in Galveston aboard a landing craft utility (LCU) before returning to the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4). Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Elizabeth Merriam.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 22, 2008) Machinist Mate 3rd Class James Brown, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), helps remove debris from the Galveston Flight Musuem after Hurricane Ike devastated the facility. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster recovery and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class David Wyscaver.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 22, 2008) Sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) help a Galveston, Texas, resident load his damaged car from Hurricane Ike onto a trailer to be transported for repairs. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas to render disaster recovery and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class David Wyscaver.)

On the Home Front:

GALVESTON, Texas, Sept. 26, 2008 -- Amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) and her embarked personnel departed Galveston, Texas Sept. 23, after completing a week-long disaster relief effort providing essential recovery and aid capabilities to the Texas coastal region affected by Hurricane Ike.

"I'm extremely pleased with the performance of all the Sailors and Marines," said Capt. James Boorujy, USS Nassau commanding officer. "Everyday, we had a long line of Sailors ready to come ashore and help out in any way possible."

Throughout the week, Nassau helped local, state and federal agencies distribute 27,440 Meals Ready to Eat (MRE's), 22,135 cases of water and 44,285 bags of ice to 6,878 families at two Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) points of distribution in Galveston.

In addition to the essential supplies distributed to Galveston residents, Nassau provided aid by treating 14 minor medical cases, clearing 1,075 cubic yards of debris and sending a total of 1,129 Sailors ashore.

"We averaged about 200 Sailors a day out in Galveston helping to distribute essential supplies, clearing debris and cleaning up areas of the city," said Capt. Bob Lineberry, mission commander, Navy Task Group Ike.

Many military units assisted Nassau in her mission of providing support to the city, including Amphibious Squadron (CPR) 6, Assault Craft Unit 2, Amphibious Construction Battalion 2, Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 28, Tactical Air Control Squadron 21, Fleet Surgical Team 2, all based in the Hampton Roads area, and Galveston Assistance Team-Overhaul Recovery comprised of Nassau Sailors.

"It was critical to have the machinist Sailors from the ship who were able to make the parts we needed to help fix and operate our water system," said Steve Leblanc, Galveston city manager. "I'd like to say a very special thanks to the Navy."

"Our primary focus was on key infrastructure," said Lineberry. "We spent a lot of Sailor and Marine manpower out at the port facility and airport. I'm very happy to hear both sites will be open soon. It was essential for city officials and our nation to get the key infrastructures going so commerce can start flowing."

A few Sailors who played a critical role in providing help to those in need offered their personal feelings on what it meant to them to give back.

"Everything went great with our recovery efforts and aid," said Boorujy. "It's going to take some time to restore Galveston but I think the assistance of state and federal agencies as well as the Navy helped jump start the effort."

"It felt great to be in Galveston helping out," said Operations Specialist 3rd Class (SW/AW) Terrance Bellock, CPR 6 operations yeoman and Texas resident. "I joined the military to help out and to be able to participate in something like this is rewarding for so many reasons."

Nassau and her embarked units arrived in Galveston Sept. 17 to support civil authorities in the aid and recovery process of the city as directed.

(Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) David Wyscaver, USS Nassau Public Affairs.)

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USS Nassau Concludes Hurricane Ike Disaster Response

GALVESTON, Texas -- Residents of Galveston receive bleach, cots, food, ice and water from Sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) and members of the Army National Guard during a food convoy to various neighborhoods to supply people affected by Hurricane Ike. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth R. Hendrix.)

Hurricane Watch:

GALVESTON, Texas, Sept. 24, 2008 -- USS Nassau (LHA 4) weighed anchor Sept. 23 to return to her homeport in Norfolk, Va., after a week of supporting local, state and federal civil authorities in Galveston's recovery effort in the wake of Hurricane Ike.

Nassau's Sailors and Marines accomplished a variety of disaster relief tasks set out by local officials. They distributed 16,440 meals ready-to-eat; 13,835 cases of water; 25,285 bags of ice; took part in emergency debris removal, clearing 1,075 cubic yards of debris; delivered medical aid for 12 minor medical cases; and assisted in bringing critical infrastructure, such as the Port of Galveston and Scholes International Airport, back on line.

"Our Sailors and Marines were able to come to the aid of their fellow Americans," said Capt. Bob Lineberry, commander, Amphibious Squadron 6. "Disaster relief and humanitarian assistance is a capability that we take around the world, and it was just as important to help our own citizens. We will sail away from here proud of our accomplishments."

Amphibious assault ships like Nassau have unique capabilities and can provide a variety of assets that can support recovery efforts following natural disasters. Nassau brought two MH-60S Knighthawk search and rescue helicopters from the "Dragon Whales" of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron 28, Detachment 4; Tactical Air Control Squadron 21; four landing craft utilities from Assault Craft Unit 2; Beachmaster Unit 2; Amphibious Construction Battalion 2 (Seabees); and Fleet Surgical Team 2 to Galveston.

The ship also deployed Galveston Assistance Team – Overhaul Recovery (GATOR) which is a team of more than 300 Sailors from the ship who volunteered to provide additional manpower ashore.

U.S. Fleet Forces directed Nassau Sept. 17 to proceed to Galveston following Hurricane Ike's landfall. U.S. Fleet Forces is the maritime component command of U.S. Northern Command, Department of Defense's lead supporting the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The ship was already underway conducting routine training operations off the coast of Virginia when called upon to prepare for possible disaster relief efforts for Hurricane Ike.

Nassau's mission is to embark, deploy and land a Marine landing force by helicopter, attack aircraft or amphibious vehicle. This multipurpose ship has a highly trained crew and ready capabilities to perform many types of missions, including humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

(From a U.S. Fleet Forces Command news release.)

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Photo Essay: Hurricane Ike Aftermath, USS Nassau Responds; Sept. 22, 2008

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 21, 2008) Aviation support Equipment Technician 1st Class Matt Foster, left, Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class Jamie Windemiller and Senior Chief Aviation Electronics Technician Paul Castro, all embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), push an airplane damaged by Hurricane Ike from the Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth R. Hendrix.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 21, 2008) Sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), move sewage waste and debris from the Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston. The museum floor and antique airplanes were covered in sewage waste left behind from Hurricane Ike. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth R. Hendrix.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 21, 2008) Sailors assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 2, embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), make their way to the Galveston Flight Museum to help clean up debris caused by Hurricane Ike. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class W. B. Swoboda.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 19, 2008) Landing craft from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 2, embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), is moored at the Port of Galveston. The amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) is anchored off the coast of Galveston to provide humanitarian assistance support to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Chris Hoffpauir.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 19, 2008) A landing craft from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 2, embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), is moored at the Port of Galveston. The amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) is anchored off the coast of Galveston to provide humanitarian assistance support to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Chris Hoffpauir.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 19, 2008) Sailors assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 2, embarked on the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), clean up damage caused by Hurricane Ike at the Galveston Regional Airport main terminal building. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. j.g. Lydia Bock.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 19, 2008) Hospital Corpsman Crystal Jackson, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), cuts up a fallen tree while working with Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 2 during the clean up of Scholes International Airport in Galveston, Texas. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Elizabeth Merriam.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 18 2008) Sailors from the USS Nassau volunteer Galveston Assistance Team - Overhaul Response (GATOR) arrive in Galveston, Texas to provide humanitarian assistance. The amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster response as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael P. Cortez.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 17, 2008) A flight survey of Galveston, Texas, is conducted by an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the "Bay Raiders" of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HSC) 28 embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4). Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Third Class (SW) Kiona M. Mckissack.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 17, 2008) A flight survey of Galveston, Texas, is conducted by an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the "Bay Raiders" of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HSC) 28 embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4). Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Third Class (SW) Kiona M. Mckissack.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 18, 2008) Seabees from Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 2 clear a path to the main road off Galveston Beach in Galveston, Texas after departing the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) to aid civilian authorities. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Elizabeth Merriam.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 21, 2008) Air Traffic Controller 2nd Class Earle Huskinson, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), gives a bag of ice to Galveston resident Lloyd Smith during a food convoy to various neighborhoods to supply people affected by Hurricane Ike with basic items. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth R. Hendrix.)

NOTE: This is a refresh of an earlier article.

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Texas Sailors Return to Help Hurricane Ike Recovery Efforts

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 20, 2008) Seabees from Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 2 use a winch to pull a capsized trailer right side up for removal. ACB-2 is working with the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), which is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Elizabeth Merriam.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 20, 2008) Construction Mechanic 3rd Class Timothy Long, left, and Construction Mechanic Constructionman Michael Gibbs, both assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 2, hook a winch to a capsized trailer for removal. ACB-2 is working with the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), which is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Elizabeth Merriam.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 19, 2008) Gunnery Sgt. William Ward helps Sailors from the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) board a MK28 cargo truck in Galveston, Texas to help provide relief aid to local citizens. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster response as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth R. Hendrix.)

Hurricane Watch:

GALVESTON, Texas, Sept. 22, 2008 -- The amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) and other military units continue recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Ike, and many Sailors involved have ties to the affected areas.

"I'm originally from Houston, and I'm the only one in my family who left the area, the rest of my family still resides there," said Aviation Electronics Technician Senior Chief (AW/SW) Raul Castro, quality assurance officer on board Nassau. "The majority of them did lose power, suffer structural damage and other effects from the storm, but they're all okay."

"I'm from Laporte, Texas, and a lot of individuals in the area were affected by Hurricane Ike, including my parents and the house I grew up in," said Aviation Ordinance Airman (AW) Cody Blair. "My aunt was also affected by the storm, and her vacation home was ruined, but no one was hurt or injured."

The military brings many capabilities during times of need, including during and after natural disasters like Hurricane Ike. Texas natives and others alike say it is meaningful to have the opportunity to give back to these communities.

"It feels great to be here helping out," said Operations Specialist Third Class (SW/AW) Terrance Bellock, Amphibious Squadron 6 operations yeoman and Texas resident. "I joined the military to help out, and to be able to participate in something like this is rewarding for so many reasons."

"It feels really good being out here and working together with everyone to make a difference," Blair added. "The hurricane has devastated so many people and it's nice to give back to those in need."

Nassau and her embarked units, Amphibious Construction Battalion 2 (ACB-2), Assault Craft Unit 2 (ACU-2), Fleet Surgical Team 2 (FST-2) and others bring essential resources to the area to help aid in the recovery process.

"We have a tremendous capability to help support in the efforts of disaster response," said Capt. Bob Lineberry, Amphibious Squadron 6 commander. "This is what the United States Navy trains for and is ready to perform at any time."

"The type of situation we're seeing with the aftermath of Hurricane Ike is the kind of scenario we train and prepare for," said Builder Second Class (SCW) Anthony Marshall, Amphibious Construction Battalion 2.

"Every task we receive involves providing relief in one way or another, whether it be helping overseas, assisting our fellow military members or providing assistance stateside. We help improve conditions all around the world."

USS Nassau and other military units are working together in support of civil authorities to help the recovery process in Galveston and other areas of Texas damaged in the wake of Hurricane Ike.

(Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) David Wyscaver, USS Nassau Public Affairs.)

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Photo Essay: Hurricane Ike Aftermath, USS Nassau Responds; Sept. 22, 2008

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 21, 2008) Aviation support Equipment Technician 1st Class Matt Foster, left, Aviation Support Equipment Technician 1st Class Jamie Windemiller and Senior Chief Aviation Electronics Technician Paul Castro, all embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), push an airplane damaged by Hurricane Ike from the Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth R. Hendrix.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 21, 2008) Sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), move sewage waste and debris from the Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston. The museum floor and antique airplanes were covered in sewage waste left behind from Hurricane Ike. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth R. Hendrix.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 21, 2008) Sailors assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 2, embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), make their way to the Galveston Flight Museum to help clean up debris caused by Hurricane Ike. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class W. B. Swoboda.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 19, 2008) Landing craft from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 2, embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), is moored at the Port of Galveston. The amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) is anchored off the coast of Galveston to provide humanitarian assistance support to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Chris Hoffpauir.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 19, 2008) A landing craft from Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 2, embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), is moored at the Port of Galveston. The amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) is anchored off the coast of Galveston to provide humanitarian assistance support to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Chris Hoffpauir.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 19, 2008) Sailors assigned to Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 2, embarked on the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), clean up damage caused by Hurricane Ike at the Galveston Regional Airport main terminal building. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. j.g. Lydia Bock.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 19, 2008) Hospital Corpsman Crystal Jackson, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), cuts up a fallen tree while working with Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 2 during the clean up of Scholes International Airport in Galveston, Texas. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Elizabeth Merriam.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 18 2008) Sailors from the USS Nassau volunteer Galveston Assistance Team - Overhaul Response (GATOR) arrive in Galveston, Texas to provide humanitarian assistance. The amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster response as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Michael P. Cortez.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 17, 2008) A flight survey of Galveston, Texas, is conducted by an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the "Bay Raiders" of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HSC) 28 embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4). Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Third Class (SW) Kiona M. Mckissack.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 17, 2008) A flight survey of Galveston, Texas, is conducted by an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the "Bay Raiders" of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HSC) 28 embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4). Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Third Class (SW) Kiona M. Mckissack.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 18, 2008) Seabees from Amphibious Construction Battalion (ACB) 2 clear a path to the main road off Galveston Beach in Galveston, Texas after departing the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) to aid civilian authorities. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Elizabeth Merriam.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 21, 2008) Air Traffic Controller 2nd Class Earle Huskinson, assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), gives a bag of ice to Galveston resident Lloyd Smith during a food convoy to various neighborhoods to supply people affected by Hurricane Ike with basic items. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston to support civil authorities in disaster recovery as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kenneth R. Hendrix.)

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USS Nassau Delivers critical Aid to Galveston

Seaman Gregory Newland directs a utility landing craft from the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau onto the beach near the port of Galveston, Texas to begin disaster relief efforts Sept. 18. The Nassau is anchored off Galveston to provide disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. Seaman Newland is assigned to Beachmaster Unit Two. ((U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Bennie J. Davis III.)

Seaman Apprentice Vincent Jones deploys on a utility landing craft from the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau under way to the beaches of Galveston, Texas to begin disaster relief efforts Sept. 18. The Nassau is anchored off Galveston to provide disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Bennie J. Davis III.)

A high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle or Humvee exits from an utility landing craft Sept. 18 on the beach near Galveston, Texas. The Humvee was from the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau anchored off Galveston to provide disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Bennie J. Davis III.)

A members of Beachmaster Unit Two directs utility landing crafts from the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau Sept. 18 on the beach near Galveston, Texas to begin disaster relief efforts . The Nassau is anchored off Galveston to provide disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Bennie J. Davis III.)

Hurricane Watch:

GALVESTON ISLAND, Texas, Sept. 19, 2008 -- Military heavy equipment and teams began arriving onshore here Sept. 18 as part of a tremendous assistance effort for an area devastated by Hurricane Ike.

Teams from the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau began the process of bringing supplies, equipment and people ashore to help with cleanup efforts.

A Navy construction battalion, who are experts in rebuilding roads or bridges, is part of the relief effort.

"We're working with the state of Texas and the mayor of Galveston (in Texas) in providing them the services that they need here," said Navy Capt. James Boorujy, the USS Nassau commanding officer. "They're in charge and we're supporting them any way we can.

The Naval officer in charge of the relief operation is Navy Capt. Bob Lineberry, the Amphibious Squadron 6 commander. As commander of the squadron, Captain Lineberry also holds the title of commodore, given to officers who command a squadron of ships.

"We're here to support the Mayor for as quick of recovery as possible," Captain Lineberry said. "Our people are trained with the machinery to remove debris in a variety of environments. Fallen trees, broken machinery, our guys are trained for these types of missions and we'll do them where the mayor desires us to be."

Officials from U.S. Fleet Forces Command, as the Joint Forces Maritime component commander to U.S. Northern Command, directed the ship to provide maritime disaster response at the request of the Federal Emergency Management Agency assisting first responders on scene and citizens affected by Hurricane Ike.

From the USS Nassau, members of the Assault Craft Unit departed for an eight-mile journey to Galveston's beach. The unit, using four landing craft utility boats, transported heavy equipment from ship to shore, including Humvees, backhoes, front-end loaders and other heavy machinery, equipment and Sailors for the emergency debris removal efforts.

"We're responsible for the movement of vehicles, cargo and personnel from ship to shore," said Navy Chief Petty Officer Reggie Sherrod, one of four craftmasters running the LCUs. "I can carry 200 tons, composed of equipment and force personnel."

More than 1,000 Sailors and Marines are coming ashore to assist in recovery efforts. The four LCUs arrived at the beach, conducted a beach landing, bringing equipment and specialty teams such as a beachmaster unit and three disaster relief teams ashore Sept. 18, while the masses of Sailors are being brought ashore on the LCUs Sept. 19 to assist in the enormous task of getting the city back on its feet.

Once shoreside, the beachmasters play an important role in getting forces onto land.

"Our role is to setup a command center, control the traffic of personnel and cargo from ship to shore," said Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chris Hernandez, assigned to Beach Master Unit 2. "Once ashore, it will be put to use for whatever Galveston needs. We coordinate with members of city who tell us where the need it."

Once equipment arrives on shore, it is checked and put into action.

"We'll make full use of the vehicle we have," said Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Levon Poel, a disaster relief team member with Amphibious Construction Battalion 2, who is responsible for all equipment being brought ashore. "We have a bulldozer, we can help with grading the beach, clearing any debris they have, whatever they need."

Sailors coming ashore will also be assisting with points of distribution for supplies.

The USS Nassau made a 2,000-mile journey to Galveston, arriving off coast in the evening of Sept. 16.

"We were actually underway heading here before the hurricane hit", Captain Boorujy said.

"Almost immediately upon arrival, there was extensive coordination and integration with lead government agencies in order to make to beach (Sept. 18)," Captain Lineberry said.

The ship deployed for the same mission following Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

"It's a good feeling knowing we're coming out here to help our country," Petty Officer Hernandez said. This is one of the things we're ready for. We came to serve our country no matter where -- here, Iraq, Afghanistan, stateside. Wherever we're needed, we'll go."

(Story by Capt. Nicholas J. Sabula, Air Force News Agency.)

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Texas Guardsmen Distribute Life's Basic Necessities Along Gulf Coast

Texas National Guard Soldiers distribute ice and water at the Texas City, Texas point-of-distribution site. (Photo by Sgt. Jennifer D. Atkinson.)

Hurricane Watch:

Relief efforts continue along Ike's path.

TEXAS CITY, Texas, Sept. 18, 2008 -- For National Guard Soldiers here, shouts, thumps, beeps and the growl of hundreds of idling engines combined to produce a steady soundtrack for emergency point-of-distribution operations in a grocery store parking lot.

For the residents in the Gulf Coast area of Texas, many facing more days without power or water service, POD's are a source of basic supplies such as clean water, ice and food for their families and friends. The Texas National Guard has set up over twenty distribution points throughout the areas hit by Hurricane Ike, including Galveston Island.

"This operation was a 'put out a fire' decision to meet the needs of Texas City residents," said 1st Lt. Robert Kueber, a platoon leader with the 236th Military Police Company in San Antonio. Because of the short notice of the operation, the POD is a combined effort between several units, including the 536th Brigade Support Battalion at Camp Bullis and the 1st Battalion, 141st Infantry Regiment, both in San Antonio.

"The POD started operations three days ago," said Sgt. 1st Class Karl August from E Company, 536th Brigade Support Battalion, and it's been consistently busy. "It starts at 8 a.m. and it doesn't stop until it's dark," August said.

Despite the climbing temperatures and the never-ending line of cars, the Soldiers manning this POD are upbeat and motivated, August said.

"We can't focus on the bad things that have happened here," he said, "but the good things we're doing." The faster the Soldiers work, he said, "the faster (we) can help the community."

"These guys are more motivated than almost any Soldiers I've ever worked with," said Kueber. "They just want to keep at it all day."

Capt. Ross Clements, with the Texas City Police Department, says the PODs are a "great deal of help," before the basic city infrastructure is restored.

"They've been incredible," he said, and "not just in Texas City, but at Galveston Island, LaMarque and all over."

According to both August and Kueber, the interaction between Soldiers and residents has been very positive.

"The local community has been taking care of us really well," said August. To thank the Soldiers for their hard work, a barbecue pit has been set up in the evenings and "that gives us our motivation for the next day. The community is giving back considerably. "Residents have also brought sodas and Gatorade for the workers to say "thank you."

For Kueber, being able to respond to local disasters quickly is "one of the best things about the National Guard. We can bring a lot of people and equipment to the table on short notice, because we're already here in the community."

Being able to help fellow Texans and to know that help is appreciated is what keeps August responding to the call.

"This city has taken care of us and they've also kept our motivation high," he said. "We've heard nothing but praise. We appreciate it and that's enough for us."

(Story by Sgt. Jennifer D. Atkinson, 100th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, Texas National Guard.)

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Hoosier Guardsmen Deal With Ike's Aftermath in Northwest Indiana

Indiana National Guard Spc. Edward Russell stacks sandbags into the back of a truck at a sandbag-make operation in Gary, Ind., Sept. 16. The remnants of Hurricane Ike that smashed the Texas coastline on Sept. 12, dumped more than 10 inches of rain on several northwestern Indiana counties causing lake, rivers, tributaries and levies to spill over their banks and cause massive flooding. (Photo by Sgt. Michael B. Krieg.)

Indiana Army National Guard Soldiers with the 113th Engineer Battalion place sand bags onto failing levies in Gary, Ind., Sept. 16, to help shore them up and stop further flooding. The remnants of Hurricane Ike that smashed the Texas coastline on Sept. 12, dumped more than 10 inches of rain on several northwestern Indiana counties causing lake, rivers, tributaries and levies to spill over their banks and cause massive flooding. (Photo by Sgt. Michael B. Krieg.)

Hurricane Watch:

Relief efforts continue along Ike's path.

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind., Sept. 18, 2008 -- By Sunday afternoon, the remnants of Hurricane Ike had dumped more than 10 inches of rain on northwestern Indiana, causing lakes and tributaries from Lake Michigan to swell beyond capacity. As a result, the Indiana Department of Homeland Security called the National Guard.

During Operation Indiana Ike, more than 150 Guard Soldiers helped the hurricane-ravaged areas with security patrols, search and rescue missions, and filling and placing sandbags.

"Stuff like this is pretty much why I joined the National Guard. It's helping people out in their time of need. I've been to Iraq, and I thought I had done my duty there, but it's assignments like this that are really important to me," said Sgt. Travis Hackett with the 738th Medical Company headquartered in Monticello, Ind.

Lake, Porter, Laporte, Newton, St. Joseph, Benton and Stark counties were hit hard as was the Munster community, west of the Gary armory. Flood waters had breached the banks of the Little Calumet River that runs through the middle of the town and soon engulfed the entire community with three to four feet of water.

The high waters soon flooded the lower floors of the Munster Med-Inn, a five story nursing home, shutting down power and life support to the entire complex and forcing the evacuation of more than 150 patients to other hospitals in dry areas.

"We have to get all of these people out of this flooded building and get them to higher ground. The patients are pretty upset that they have to go through all of this, but they are relieved to see us here, pitching in with the local responders and getting the job done. That's what we're here for," said 1st Sgt. Steven Staley, the top enlisted Soldier with Forward Support Company, 113th Engineer Battalion. Staley was in charge of the Guardsmen carrying residents out of the flooded building.

The medical facility staff praised the efforts of Indiana Guard Soldiers and fire department personnel, and other emergency responders who helped with the evacuation.

"These Soldiers have been working their tails off for the last six hours and into the night, taking residents down each floor. We have all been a team today and it's been wonderful, " said Kathy Riley, a licensed nurse practitioner at Munster Med-Inn. "We were so glad to see the uniforms roll in because I was starting to get scared!"

With no electricity to power the elevators, the residents were carefully carried, one-by-one, down the dimly lit emergency exit stairwells to waiting military vehicles and civilian ambulances.

Staff Sgt. Jerrod Martin, Detachment 18, Recruiting and Retention, made several trips up and down the dark, five-story stairwell during the evacuation.

"This is definitely the best thing the National Guard could have done. We are a community-based organization, and it's a reminder that we still have a state mission to do," said Martin. In addition to Martin, 12 more Indiana Army National Guard recruiters helped with the flood relief in northern Indiana.

Bob Young, Laporte County Highway Department superintendent, also praised the Indiana National Guard who showed up in his county with a high-speed sandbagging machine.

"The Guard is very instrumental in our efforts here. Before (they) showed up, we were just using shovels and it was very time-consuming," Young said. "But, with that four-station sandbagging machine (they) brought, and (their) knowledgeable Soldiers manning the controls, we can make 10 times as many bags and be way ahead of the game."

Other units assisting in Operation Indiana Ike with flood relief were Joint Force Headquarters, 1638th Transportation Company, 190th Transportation Company, 638th Aviation Support Battalion and Company B, 2nd Battalion, 151st Infantry.

(Story by Sgt. Michael B. Krieg, Indiana National Guard public affairs office.)

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Galveston Mayor, USS Nassau Coordinate Hurricane Ike Relief Efforts

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 17, 2008) A flight survey of Galveston, Texas, is conducted by an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the "Bay Raiders" of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HSC) 28 embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4). Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster response and aid to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Third Class (SW) Kiona M. Mckissack.)

GALVESTON, Texas (Sept. 17, 2008) Lyda Ann Thomas, right, Mayor of Galveston, Texas, enters an MH-60S Sea Hawk helicopter, assigned to the "Bay Raiders" of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron (HSC) 28 to fly aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) for a capabilities and limitations meeting. Nassau is anchored off the coast of Galveston, Texas, to render disaster response and aide to civil authorities as directed in the wake of Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kiona M. Mckissack.)

Hurricane Watch:

USS NASSAU, At Sea, Sept. 18, 2008 -- The mayor of Galveston, Texas, arrived aboard amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4) Sept. 17 to help coordinate Nassau's role in assisting with Hurricane Ike relief efforts.

Mayor Lyda Ann Thomas spoke with Commander, Amphibious Squadron 6, Capt. Bob Lineberry; Nassau's Commanding Officer, Capt. James R. Boorujy; and other military and civilian officials to discuss the specific areas where help is needed most.

"It's nice for the city of Galveston and other Texas residents [to] see the Navy and other military units helping the disaster victims," said Sandra Coachman, a federal coordinating officer with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. "It's certainly a huge morale booster, and it shows the United States does care about what's going on here."

During the meeting, participants discussed plans for Nassau, the capabilities of the ship and its crew to support disaster relief missions and detailed job tasking for how assistance will occur.

Nassau and its crew possess many essential resources in aiding those in need and assisting with many different tasks during the humanitarian relief efforts.

"Nassau offers a tremendous amount of capabilities to effectively respond to real-world situations," said Lineberry. "We also have search-and-rescue teams and landing craft units for supply and personnel transfer."

"Within my crew and the embarked detachments, we have a tremendous amount of repair capability that can tackle a variety of tasks," said Boorujy. "I could send ashore a group of 100 or 200 Sailors, and they could pretty much tackle anything that comes their way."

Officials who participated in the meeting noted the positive impact of having the military involved in helping those affected by Hurricane Ike.

"It's a wonderful opportunity for the defense side of the federal government to help with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the disaster assistance for the state of Texas," said Coachman.

"We have a tremendous capability to help support the efforts of disaster response. This is what the United States Navy trains for and is ready to perform at any time," Lineberry said.

Nassau and its embarked capabilities began relief operations on the Texas coast Sept. 18, assisting federal, state and local agencies with their relief efforts.

(Story by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class (SW) David Wyscaver, Fleet Public Affairs Center Atlantic.)

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Louisiana National Guard Clears Devastation in Cameron Parish

A U.S. flag flies, covered in mud and debris, in front of the Cameron, La., court house Sept. 15. The flag was rescued by members of the Louisiana Army National Guard's 528th Engineer Battalion who were performing cleanup operations in the city. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Bennie J. Davis III.)

Army Sgt. Damian Edwards sweeps muddy water from the basement level of the Cameron, La., court house Sept. 15. Nearly 2,000 gallons of water were removed due to flooding caused by Hurricane Ike. Sergeant Edwards is a engineer with the 921st Engineering Company of the Louisiana Army National Guard. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Bennie J. Davis III.)

Engineers from the Louisiana Army National Guard's 528th Engineer Battalion pull up to the court house of Cameron, La., where they removed 14 feet of water from the building's basement that was caused by Hurricane Ike. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Bennie J. Davis III.)

Hurricane Watch:

Relief efforts continue along Ike's path.

CAMERON, La., Sept. 17, 2008 -- A military response team arrived here Sept. 15 to begin cleanup operations in the wake of Hurricane Ike.

Members of the Louisiana Army National Guard's 528th Engineer Battalion, 921st Engineer Company, from Windsboro, La., arrived in Cameron Parish to begin the task of returning the area to a fully-functioning community.

For the guardsmen, this meant working among destroyed homes, broken gas lines and massive flooding that had not yet receded.

"We're here clearing roads, clearing trees and making things safe so people can get in here and start their lives again," said Army 1st Lt. Dennis Veach, the 921st Engineer Company executive officer. "The faster we get this cleaned up, the faster people can get back in here to get their lives back."

"Our primary mission is combat engineer heavy equipment: 5-ton dump trucks to front end loaders to bulldozers," said Army Capt. Christopher Spurlock, the company commander. "We want to open up the major routes to bring in food, water, MREs, to people in need, so the parish can get back up on its feet and support itself."

This mission would not be an easy one.

"First thing we saw was water as far as you can see," said Army Sgt. Cody Hawthorne. "Our mission objective was to go as far as possible, so we took the front end loader and pushed all the way to Cameron. There were trees and cows; we had to deal with a lot of wildlife -- alligators, snakes -- along the way. Total destruction down here; water went straight through the trailers; cars underwater. It was terrible."

The first objective of the team was to clean out the parish courthouse, considered the center of government in the area. In order to get to that, the team would have a long, hard road ahead of them. They had to deal with downed trees along the 30-mile route, many of them over 100 feet high.

"We made it to the courthouse," said Army Sgt. Damian Edwards. "In the process we cleared trees off the road, and what they call around here mud patties -- big chunks of mud with grass growing on top."

At the courthouse, the company discovered flooding in the building's basement and a welcoming committee of alligators and snakes.

"We had a lot of cottonmouth (snakes) attacking everything, including our skip loader," Sergeant Hawthorne said.

Through the day, some local business owners were allowed to enter the area. Some of them stopped to see the devastation to their own homes -- houses they hadn't seen since evacuating a week earlier.

"I had a man come in this morning; he was in tears and said his wife was up all night crying," Sergeant Hawthorne said. "His house is just a stone's-throw (from the courthouse) and he wanted to come and check it out so his wife would have something to remember. It was totally destroyed; his fifth house in four years."

Despite losing his home, the man helped the team pump water from the courthouse.

"I took some guys to the gas plant earlier. They had two gas leaks down there and we got that stopped," Sergeant Edwards said.

Captain Spurlock explained that the Emergency Operations Centers in the parishes request assistance through the Louisiana National Guard's Joint Operations Center, which flows information to brigades, where units are chosen for specific missions and sent to locations.

"Initially, when we come in with our recon elements -- our engineering assessment teams -- we determine what is the need, what equipment is needed to remove the debris," Captain Spurlock said.

Working with parish officials through the EOC, and once all major routes are clear and engineer assets are no longer needed, they give a closing report releasing the team.

"We know they're getting back on their feet and we'll return to our brigade," Captain Spurlock said.

Though the damage was substantial, the cleanup team did find something that gave it a little extra energy to focus on the task at hand.

"We found the flag behind the courthouse," Captain Spurlock said. "It was buried in some of the sludge. We just dug it out and put it up on a piece of rebar that we found. We just wanted to get Old Glory flying again."

With day one of cleanup operations complete, the team looked forward to more days of clearing roads and debris, so people can begin the healing process.

"I try and think of a story when I go home and tell my wife about what I'm doing, but some of the stuff she just wouldn't believe," Sergeant Hawthorne said. "But it does feel good to help people out," he said.

(Story by Capt. Nicholas J. Sabula, Air Force News Agency.)

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