On September 23, 2019, the 227th Composite Supply Company, 101st Sustainment Brigade, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), sprang into action and kicked off Operation Parched Eagle to provide purified bulk water to Fort Campbell units, schools, and garrison and tenant units.
The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation directed a boil advisory, on Monday, informing all members and residents that an animal had been found in one of their finished water storage tanks.
"Being able to provide drinkable water to the Soldiers, Family Members and civilians on Fort Campbell is one our missions that we take seriously. My Soldiers are truly having a positive impact across the Division by conducting this 24-hour mission," said Col. Stephanie Barton, commander, 101st Sust. Bde. "It all started with a groundhog and that's what shut down the water on post but my Soldiers are excited to do their job."
Due to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation finding, Fort Campbell made the decision to halt all consumption of water on the installation and contacted Barton seeking support in efforts to continue training. The notice advised everyone to boil water before consuming it.
This advisory took effect immediately and halted current operations and tactical missions as a precaution to prevent any illnesses or heat related injuries for Soldiers currently on training missions.
The 227th Composite Supply Co. has the ability to purify up to 60k gallons of water in 24 hours and the has the capability to store up to 50k gallons of purified water.
Soldiers of the 227th Composite Supply Co. are currently conducting 24-hour operations, consisting of 12-hour shifts, to provide the installation with potable water.
The water goes through a three-pump cleaning and purification process, pumped into a mobile water storage tank, and transported to a holding area. The water is then distributed to organizations on Fort Campbell.
"It is for people for who are out in the field who may need water," said Spc. Tonisha Jones, 227th Composite Supply Co.
Water purification operations started Tuesday morning and by 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday the 227th Composite Supply Co. has already distributed over 12,500 gallons of potable water and has more than 19,500 on hand ready for distribution to Soldiers of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault).
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