National Guard prepares for Hurricane Sandy

MILFORD, MA (WWLP) - Massachusetts National Guard Press Release:

Massachusetts National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are prepared to respond to the needs of the communities as the commonwealth prepares for the effects of Hurricane Sandy.

More than 2000 Guardsmen were alerted throughout the commonwealth to clear debris for emergency vehicles, provide power generation, security and to support requests from communities to help citizens following the aftermath of the storm.

"The Massachusetts National Guard is ready to deploy Guardsmen, equipment and vehicles to serve the citizens of the commonwealth during a state of emergency," said Maj. Gen. L. Scott Rice, The Adjutant General, Massachusetts National Guard. "As the state's first military responder, we train and coordinate with local, state and federal emergency responders to prepare for emergency situations. The men and women of the Massachusetts National Guard are eager to put their training to good use and we are here to help our fellow citizens. I have called 200 personnel to duty today to conduct planning. I expect to call an additional 1000 to 2000 to report early Monday morning. If the storm hits our state hard, it is possible that I could call around 3000 Guardsmen to state duty."

The Adjutant General has activated Joint Task Force - Massachusetts and designated Brig. Gen. Paul "Greg" Smith as Commander. Brig. Gen. Gary Keefe will serve as Deputy Commander.

Task Force Patriot will be commanded by Lt. Col. George Harrington and consists of Soldiers from the 26th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade from Reading and the 79th Troop Command from Rehoboth.

TF Patriot is prepared to provide support for storm relief operations in coordination with civilian authorities. Currently the Guard is providing personnel to support sandbagging operations in Freetown. The Guard has forces ready to assist additional communities as needed throughout relief areas.

"For 376 years the Massachusetts National Guard has answered the call to duty," said Rice. "I am confident in the training and dedication of our Service members. Each one knows that the safety of their neighbors and friends may depend on their service, skills and professionalism over the next week."