Delaware National Guard assisting with hurricane relief in Puerto Rico

Members of the Delaware National Guard are assisting with Hurricane Maria relief efforts in Puerto Rico. (Photo: Delaware Free News)

SMYRNA, DELAWARE (10/26/2017) Members of the Delaware National Guard are assisting with Hurricane Maria relief efforts in Puerto Rico.

On Tuesday, 36 soldiers from the 1049th Transportation Company left the Smryna Readiness Center by bus and were flying to Puerto Rico.

They will be there up to 60 days to help transport supplies to residents of the island.

Since August, about 80 Delaware National Guard soldiers, airmen and women have deployed to support hurricane relief efforts in Texas, Florida, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

The Delaware National Guard has transported 80 tons of supplies including generators, satellite communications equipment, medical supplies, and food and water.

C-130 crews evacuated more than 250 residents. 

Delaware National Guard also provided support with medical, engineer and communications experts. A in the Virgin Islands helping with aerial port operations at St. Croix Airport, along with a team of communication experts assisting in Puerto Rico.

“This request for support just came last Thursday, but these soldiers reacted in true Minuteman tradition – leaving within less than a week. They are always ready, always there,” said Brig. Gen. Michael Berry, director of the Delaware National Guard’s Joint Staff.

Gov. John Carney speaks to departing Delaware National Guard troops. (Photo: Delaware Free News)