COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has mobilized the Ohio National Guard to provide aid to North Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene, which caused significant flooding and damage across the state.
A CH-47 helicopter and six soldiers from Company B, 3rd Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment are headed to North Carolina to assist in the transportation of supplies, equipment, and personnel. The aerial support is especially crucial, as many roads have been rendered impassable by floodwaters and debris.
Major General John Harris Jr., the Ohio adjutant general, emphasized the National Guard’s readiness to respond to emergencies: “Ohio is Always Ready, Always There to help our fellow states in a time of need.”
North Carolina requested Ohio’s assistance through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), a national agreement that facilitates mutual aid between states during emergencies.
The soldiers deploying are based in North Canton, Ohio, and are expected to remain in North Carolina as long as needed to support the recovery efforts.