(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that ten Connecticut National Guard soldiers are anticipated to arrive in Tennessee this afternoon aboard UH-60 Blackhawk and CH-47 Chinook helicopters to support those in need in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Florence, which is anticipated to hit the southeast United States later this week. The crew and equipment will stage in the area to help cut down on the response time required to provide assistance.
“In Connecticut, we know how firsthand what it’s like to experience extraordinary weather events, and we know how important the help of neighbors can be during recovery,” Governor Malloy said. “The men and women of the Connecticut National Guard are among the most well-trained and well-prepared in the country, and I thank them for dropping everything at a moment’s notice so that we can assist our neighbors to our south with what is looking like will become a devastating situation.”
“As our country anxiously waits to see Hurricane Florence make landfall in the Carolinas, I’m proud that Connecticut has sent some of our National Guardsmen and aircrafts to assist with this colossal storm,” Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman said. “We wish our troops and everyone aiding in relief efforts Godspeed and a safe journey home. We will continue to keep the Carolinas and surrounding areas in our thoughts and prayers during Hurricane Florence.”
“I wish our Guardsmen a safe journey and the best of luck as they head south to support fellow Americans who may be in need,” Major General Francis J. Evon Jr., Adjutant General of the Connecticut National Guard, said. “The Connecticut National Guard is well versed in relief operations, and I thank each and every one of our members departing today for their service and selflessness to leave at a moment’s notice to be a part of this mission.”
Both the UH-60 Blackhawk and the CH-47 Chinook are transport helicopters capable of moving personnel or equipment. A Blackhawk can seat up to a dozen passengers, and a Chinook is capable of carrying over 30 passengers, not including crew.
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