APRIL 2, 2025 – U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Command Sergeant Major Douglas W. Galick visited western North Carolina March 26-27, 2025, to witness firsthand the ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene’s devastation.
During his visit, Galick met with deployed USACE personnel, contractors and partners involved in the recovery operation and recognized the tireless efforts of those working on the ground, as part of the U.S. Army and federal family’s ongoing support to affected communities.
“I just really came to say thank you and express sincere gratitude for all of our folks that volunteered to do this,” Galick said.
As the USACE command sergeant major, Galick serves as senior enlisted advisor to the commanding general, representing the command during visits to many of their most vital missions and project sites and checking on their military and civilian workforce.
Progress on the Ground
One of the most striking aspects of Galick’s latest visit to North Carolina, he said, was the noticeable progress in debris removal efforts and overall recovery.
“I first came here in early October, and now we’re coming up on the six-month anniversary of the hurricane. I will tell you, the progress so far has been amazing,” Galick said. “And it speaks volumes about the strength and unity of the people here in western North Carolina.”
USACE personnel began deploying under FEMA mission assignments in late Sept. in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Since then, they have executed debris removal on private properties, public waterways, public rights-of-way and other vital areas. These efforts have already seen the removal of more than 3.25 million cubic yards of debris to date — more than half of the estimated 5.66 million total cubic yards of debris contracted for removal.
The private property debris removal mission — spanning five counties and three cities — is now 88% complete, with more than 1,300 parcels cleared, out of more than 1,500 total parcels contracted.
“I wanted to see with my own eyes — and help everybody understand — that we are making progress,” Galick said. “And this is something for our nation to be proud of.”
Continuing Commitment
While encouraged by the progress so far, Galick emphasized there is still more work to be done. The recovery is a long-term effort that will require continued dedication.
“While we have made significant strides, the need is still great, and we will remain here for the long haul,” he said.
USACE is engaged as part of a larger recovery strategy in support of local, state and federal partners, and their long-term presence here is representative of the broader U.S. Army’s enduring commitment to the safety and well-being of the American people, Galick said.
The USACE mission here is spearheaded by a deployed cadre of more than 200 military and civilian personnel, alongside almost 2,200 contractors carrying out the work on the ground, helping set conditions for the region’s long-term recovery and rebuilding.
Galick also acknowledged the strength and resilience of the local community and reiterated that USACE is committed to being a steadfast partner throughout the recovery process.
“I will tell you my experiences here in western North Carolina in early October were some of the things that sit most heavy in my soul, because you just had to reach out, and you just felt compassion for these people,” Galick said. “And it just heightened the sense urgency, that we’re here for the long haul, and we’re going to be here to help.
Your Army, Here for You
“Our USACE teammates — coming from all around the nation — have stepped forward to deploy here and support their fellow citizens in a time of need,” Galick said. “It’s a great example of your Army, here for you and staying by your side on this path to recovery.”
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is a direct reporting unit of the Army, with eight divisions and 44 districts nationwide. It is composed of both uniformed military and civilian professionals — approximately 40,000 total — who deliver essential engineering and technical expertise in support of the Army and the nation.
Galick pointed out the USACE deployment here is a demonstration of the U.S. Army’s enduring presence and selfless service in communities across the country.
“It is important for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers here to represent the U.S. Army, to stay on the ground, work with our local, state and federal leaders, and to make sure that the people of this community understand we will be here for the entire mission,” Galick said. “We’ve been here since the start, and we’re going to be here until the mission is complete.”
As the recovery continues, USACE remains ready to support the people of western North Carolina, ensuring that progress continues in close coordination with local, state and federal partners. For more information, visit USACE’s Helene Response website.
By Maj. Spencer Garrison and Ernest Henry IV