94th BSB brings food, aid to hurricane victims, rescue workers

-- Published Article (9.9.05 edition) --

As many in the Fort Polk community readied themselves for family activities or trips over the Labor Day weekend, Soldiers of the 94th Brigade Support Battalion, 4th Brigade, 10th Mountain Division, were preparing to bring aid to the families and rescue workers in New Orleans.
Lt. Col. Michael Howitz, commander of the 94th, said the unit began preparing to bring humanitarian aid and assistance Aug. 28 as they kept updated on weather reports that confirmed Hurricane Katrina would hit New Orleans and the surrounding area.
He added that as a support battalion, Soldiers are trained in maintenance, medical, fuel and supply operations.
“We put together a (support) package that includes the capability to move supplies, fuel, medical services and maintenance capabilities. The vehicles were ready to go and dispatched. Soldiers were identified and ready by (Aug. 29),” he said.
About 15 percent of the Soldiers in the 94th’s eight companies were called to assist in the mission.
“We got the warning order (Sept. 1) to be prepared to execute this mission if called upon and were notified (Sept. 3) that we would send 25 five-ton trucks with meals-ready-to-eat and water to the New Orleans airport,” Howitz said.
He said it was a supply mission but follow-on missions were possible once they arrived at the Louis Armstrong International Airport.
“It is not definite when we return, but we will be there until the mission is complete,” he added.
“(The Soldiers) realize that this mission is Americans helping Americans in need and they are motivated and working very hard. They want to get there to assist the Americans who are dealing with this disaster,” said Howitz.
He said although the unit would take with them three ambulances and a treatment team, these are primarily for the convoy’s needs, and the unit had not been called upon to provide medical aid.
Howitz said this is the battalion’s first real-world deployment and he agreed that it was a great training asset as they prepare for upcoming deployment. He added that he is confident in the abilities of the Soldiers, stating that many had previously been deployed with the 2nd Armored Cavalry Regiment during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Howitz said although Soldiers prepare for missions to Afghanistan they realize there is a possibility they could be called upon to provide support within the United States.
For Sgt. Victor Wilson this mission is especially close to home as he is a native of Meridian, Miss.
He said he is thankful his family members are safe as he reflected upon the homes lost during the hurricane’s aftermath.
Wilson said he feels great having the opportunity to help fellow Americans in their time of need.
“I wish I could have gone yesterday to lend a hand in helping our people,” he said.
“We’re going to get there and give them as much support as possible and assist with the situation.“
Wilson added the humanitarian aid the 94th provides victims and rescue workers of Hurricane Katrina will showcase the capabilities of the unit and their role in the 4th Bde, 10th Mtn Div.