AUGUST 9, 2024 – The Alaska National Guard activated Juneau Guardsmen Aug. 7 to assist with recovery and cleanup following recent flooding after the Mendenhall Glacier’s Suicide Basin released.
Gov. Mike Dunleavy issued a disaster declaration Aug. 6. Five Guardsmen were activated on state active-duty orders Aug. 7, with two additional Aug. 8.
Thirty-three Air and Army Guard volunteers from Fairbanks and Anchorage were also expected to fly to Juneau as part of Joint Task Force-Juneau.
They will clean up debris and distribute supplies to the community.
“They are model citizens stepping up to support their communities at a moment’s notice,” said Col. Christen Brewer, the joint director of military support, overseeing Guard operations. “Fortunately, they are minimally impacted by the flooding and able to integrate into the response to help their friends, family and neighbors in their time of need.”
Before the flood, the State Operation Emergency Center supported the city and borough of Juneau, issuing an evacuation warning to the flood risk area through the Wireless Emergency Alert system.
Local resources have since been exhausted, prompting the SEOC to ask the Alaska National Guard for flood recovery help.
“By working closely with the SEOC and local authorities, we aim to provide the necessary resources and manpower to aid in the recovery process,” said Brewer. “We are here to support the local incident commander and ensure the safety and recovery of our community.”
The Alaska National Guard is trained, equipped and prepared to provide disaster response support when requested by civil authorities.
By Staff Sgt. Seth LaCount
Alaska National Guard