Tri-City Sun

After recent severe flooding, the Michigan National Guard assembled to help residents of Midland. The area has received heavy rainfall, and Guard units are assisting families after a dam collapsed.

Because of the breach in the Edenville and Sanford dams, the National Guard is helping to evacuate families in the Midland area.

“Midland is home to our own National Guard unit, and we appreciate Guardsmen and -women throughout the rest of the state coming so quickly to our aid in an hour of need,” said Rep. Annette Glenn (R-Midland), according to the Michigan House Republicans website. She is the chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military and Veterans Affairs and State Police.

“On behalf of families suffering yet another public health and safety hazard, on top of the coronavirus threat, I’m deeply grateful to Gen. Rogers and the soldiers under his command for their service to our community, state and country.”

As soon as the dams were breached, about 130 soldiers were on the ground helping. The National Guard has been using special equipment, such as Light Medium Tactical Vehicles, which can drive through the high water.

Members of the National Guard will follow proper protocol to help protect against COVID-19. There have been minimal injuries.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency in the area after the dam breach, and President Donald Trump declared it a state of emergency a few days later. Those living along rivers and lakes were given a mandatory evacuation notice; they can seek shelter in a list of approved facilities. More than 10,000 people have been evacuated with no casualties.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers sent troops to see the condition of dams on the Tittabawassee River. When the flooding ends, there will be efforts organized for clean-up.

The guard is also serving in conjunction with COVID-19 missions, with more than 1,000 National Guard members serving active duty.