LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky Air National Guard is sending resources to areas devastated by Hurricane Helene.
Eleven Airmen from the 123rd Airlift Wing Fatality Search and Recovery Team are being sent to Hickory, North Carolina.
There, they will work with local authorities, coroners and health officials in recovering those lost following the tragedy.
“We’re bringing all-terrain vehicles, refrigeration trailers for transport and storage, as well as generators, environmental control units and tents so we can sustain the mission as long as needed,” 1st Lt. Zachary Endicott, officer in charge, said.
The National Weather Service said North Carolina experienced catastrophic flooding as Helene remnants dumped nearly 30 inches of rain in some areas. Interstate 40 was completely washed away while many roads remain impassible.
More than 130 people have been killed with hundreds still missing.
Gov. Andy Beshear applauded the National Guard for their efforts and helping communities in need.
“Our Guard members are the best of Team Kentucky, and now they are stepping up once again, this time to help our fellow Americans in North Carolina who are reeling from Hurricane Helene. I know they will make us proud,” he said in a statement.
Endicott said his team is prepared and trained to operate in these environments.
“The nature of the work is demanding, but absolutely the best part of the job is the closure we are able to bring families,” he added. "That’s what makes this work so important. We are not, unfortunately, in the business of rescuing. However, to be able to deliver somebody back home to their family and their loved ones so that they can say their final goodbyes is something that really drives this team to complete the mission,” he said.
This is not the first time the Fatality Search and Recovery Team has worked in areas devastated by national disasters.
The team also mobilized during the devastating tornado that struck Mayfield, Kentucky in 2021 and massive flooding in eastern Kentucky in 2022.
►Make it easy to keep up-to-date with more stories like this. Download the WHAS11 News app now. For Apple or Android users.
Have a news tip? Email assign@whas11.com, or visit our Facebook page or X feed.