FORT LIBERTY, N.C. – XVIII Airborne Corps has expanded its efforts to providing critical humanitarian aid, clearing routes, and delivering lifesaving assistance to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene in support of state and local officials in Western North Carolina.
U.S. Northern Command is overseeing the active-duty forces supporting the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the North Carolina Dual Status Commander during these operations.
XVIII Airborne Corps Soldiers recently delivered nine pallets of food supplies, 240 cases of water, more than 100 blankets and 50 towels. To date, more than 620,000 pounds of goods – including about 150 pallets of food, 140 pallets of water, and 302 pallets of miscellaneous supplies – were delivered to affected areas.
Unmanned aerial systems are being used for search and rescue operations and damage assessments. Initial UAS flights began on Oct. 8 in Mitchell County, covering about 4 miles of aerial assessment, with additional flights scheduled for today in Haywood County to survey six isolated areas. Information gathered will be provided to civil authorities.
The use of unmanned aerial systems can provide significant positive and unique capabilities in civil support efforts. These unmanned aerial systems can be combined with other assessments gathered from forces on-the-ground, which provide the military and other responding organizations with a common operating picture that enhances the ability to determine the right combination of resources, personnel, and equipment needed to address urgent community needs and alleviate distress.
"I am extremely proud of the Soldiers of the XVIII Airborne Corps,” said Lt. Gen. Christopher Donahue, commanding general, XVIII Airborne Corps. “When America calls, XVIII Airborne Corps answers. They represent the best of our sons and daughters, and remain committed to helping our fellow citizens in their greatest time of need.”
In the coming days, XVIII Airborne Corps will continue lifesaving aid efforts in Buncombe County. UAS capabilities will continue to be used to assess storm damage and identify potential bypass routes in Haywood and Buncombe counties. Units on the ground will provide ongoing support to local communities through distribution efforts, including assisting Mitchell County with supply logistics and route clearance around the Spruce Pine Mines.
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