Maine Army National Guard to Deploy Troops and Equipment to Massachusetts for Snow Removal

AUGUSTA, ME (02/12/2015)(readMedia)-- The Maine Army National Guard is sending nearly 50 troops along with heavy equipment to assist Massachusetts in their snow removal for an official Snow Disaster declaration.

Governor Paul R. LePage and Brig. Gen. James D. Campbell, the Adjutant General of the Maine National Guard, both approved the request for equipment and assistance to Massachusetts, which came through the Maine Emergency Management Agency.

"Our neighbors in Massachusetts are in need of our assistance, and the Maine National Guard is ready, willing and able to help," Governor LePage said. "It is during these difficult times that our service members rise to the occasion and give their support to those who need it most. I commend our men and women who are taking part in this effort and wish them a safe return home."

A state of emergency was declared in Massachusetts Monday, to allow emergency officials to begin enacting the mutual aid process with neighboring states and the private sector to secure much needed heavy equipment for snow removal.

Soldiers and equipment from the 185th Engineer Support Company, the 262nd Engineer Company (Horizontal) and the 136th Engineer Company (Vertical) will move south with dump trucks and loaders to assist in snow removal.

The request for Assistance came through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), a mutual aid agreement among all 50 states.

For additional information, please contact Sgt 1st Class. Pete Morrison, 207-430-5322, or peter.d.morrison.mil@mail.mil.