OCTOBER 14, 2024 – The Florida National Guard’s 1st Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment, quickly mobilized to respond to a series of tornadoes that touched down near Fort Pierce Oct. 10 as Hurricane Milton swept across the region.
Within hours, Soldiers conducted search and rescue operations, cleared roads and ensured residents’ safety in some of the hardest-hit areas.
Delta Company led the initial response, clearing 30 miles of road blocked by fallen trees and debris. Their swift action allowed emergency vehicles and first responders to access the devastated communities more efficiently. The company reached 18 communities in the first few hours, contacting more than 100 residents to distribute supplies and offer assistance.
“We train for disaster response all year, but when the moment comes, it’s about putting that training into action,” said Lt. Col. Kevin Shuler, 1st battalion commander. ”Our Soldiers reacted quickly, clearing roadways and making sure families were safe. We knew lives were on the line, and that’s what drives us to be the first ones there.”
The battalion’s SAR mission was critical in rescuing 15 adults, four children and five dogs trapped in homes and vehicles by floods and debris. Soldiers used high-wheeled vehicles and specialized equipment to navigate difficult terrain and ensure swift rescues.
Delta Company, led by 1st Sgt. Pedro Montero, a Miami firefighter and member of the FEMA Urban Search and Rescue South Florida Task Force 2, played a key role in these rescues, working tirelessly to reach those in danger.
“We train for situations like this, but actually being out there, saving lives, and removing people from dangerous conditions really hits home,” Montero said. “Our Soldiers are dedicated to helping the community, and there’s no greater honor than stepping in when people need us most. These aren’t just strangers we’re helping — these are our neighbors, our families.”
The coordination between the Florida National Guard, local civil authorities and first responders was key to ensuring an effective response. Capt. Nathaniel Snodgrass, plans officer for the 1st Battalion, noted the importance of this collaboration.
“Our partnership with local emergency agencies ensured that we were able to provide timely, life-saving assistance,” Snodgrass said. “We worked seamlessly with police, fire and rescue teams, which allowed us to cover more ground and reach more people.”
In addition to their search and rescue efforts, Soldiers from the battalion set up distribution points to deliver food, water and medical supplies to affected residents. The battalion’s high-wheel vehicles were instrumental in reaching areas civilian agencies could not access due to flooding.
As the day progressed, the 1st Battalion, 124th Infantry Regiment, made significant progress, contacting over 200 residents and ensuring they were safe.
“We are Floridians — your neighbors, employees and friends. We will take care of you like you are our family … because you are,” Montero said. “This is our home too, and we’re proud to be able to help save our neighbors and recover.”
Clearing roads, conducting search and rescue missions and distributing essential supplies, the National Guard’s highly trained Soldiers and Airmen bring unique capabilities and specialized equipment that complement local authorities’ efforts. As a force deeply embedded within the communities it serves, the Florida National Guard takes immense pride in its role as a first responder, ensuring that when natural disasters strike, no one is left behind.
“Our mission goes beyond just responding to the immediate disaster. We’re here to help stabilize, support recovery efforts and restore hope. We know that in times of crisis, the Florida National Guard is a beacon of safety and security for the community, and we take that responsibility very seriously,” Shuler said. “We stand ready, whether it’s clearing debris or rescuing families, to serve our fellow Floridians and help them rebuild stronger than before.”
By Maj. Cammy Alberts
125th Fighter Wing