Governor DeWine activates Ohio National Guard to support North Carolina

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has activated the Ohio National Guard to support the state of North Carolina in its recovery from flooding and damage caused by Hurricane Helene.

One CH47 helicopter and six Soldiers from Company B, 3rd Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment are en route to North Carolina to provide air movement of supplies, equipment and personnel.

Following a request Monday afternoon from North Carolina for additional Ohio National Guard support, Governor DeWine has activated 10 Airmen from the Homeland Response Forces, 121st Air Refueling Wing to support first responders in fatality search and recovery.

“Ohio is answering the call to help Governor Cooper and North Carolina in its recovery," said Governor DeWine. “In the aftermath of this storm, many roads are blocked or completely washed away, so this aerial support will be crucial in getting resources where they're needed the most.”

“Ohio is Always Ready, Always There to help our fellow states in a time of need,” said Major General John Harris Jr., Ohio adjutant general.

North Carolina requested this assistance from the Ohio National Guard under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, which is a national mutual aid partnership agreement allowing state-to-state assistance during state or federally declared emergencies.

Company B, 3rd Battalion, 238th Aviation Regiment is based in North Canton.

Publisher's note: A free press is critical to having well-informed voters and citizens. While some news organizations opt for paid websites or costly paywalls, The Highland County Press has maintained a free newspaper and website for the last 25 years for our community. If you would like to contribute to this service, it would be greatly appreciated. Donations may be made to: The Highland County Press, P.O. Box 849, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133. Please include "for website" on the memo line.