Grand Forks AFB receives FEMA mission

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Rachel Martinez
  • 319th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  U.S. Northern Command announced March 15 that Grand Forks Air Force Base has been designated as an Incident Support Base for the Federal Emergency Management Agency's flood relief efforts in the local area.

The Defense Support to Civil Authorities mission directs the base to provide an operational staging location for FEMA's equipment and supplies and to provide assistance.

The mission was assigned after the President issued a disaster declaration March 14. With the presidential declaration, the state can request federal assistance and Department of Defense assets after exhausting state resources.

"FEMA will bring commodities here to support approximately 20,000 people," said Col. Joseph Douez, 319th Mission Support Group commander and Grand Forks AFB Emergency Operations Center director.

FEMA is planning to bring 14 to 28 personnel and 80 to 90 semi-tractor trailers, filled with generators, blankets and basic essentials to respond with if required.

"We are proud to be here and help the great state of North Dakota, as well as collaborate with the armed forces," said Jeffrey Bezore, FEMA staging area direct supervisor.

In preparation for FEMA's arrival, Airmen have cleared a large portion of the airfield parking ramp. This area will serve as the staging area for the FEMA team. In addition, the 319th Security Forces Squadron is preparing to conduct additional security screening and a currently unutilized facility has been outfitted with telephones, computers and internet access to support possible future helicopter flight operations.

According to the National Weather Service, the Red River is forecasted to crest at 38 feet March 21 in Fargo and 48 feet in Grand Forks March 22.

"Grand Forks AFB has been in this fight before," said Colonel Douez. "We are ready to support the cities of Grand Forks, Fargo and surrounding communities in any way they need us."