Nebraska Guard Assists With Tornado Response

LINCOLN, Neb. - The Nebraska National Guard is assisting state and local first responders after a tornado caused widespread damage.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen authorized the Nebraska National Guard to fulfill multiple requests for resources by Douglas County officials and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The Douglas County Sheriff's Office and the Omaha Police Department asked for help through the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency.

The Nebraska National Guard is deploying approximately 80 Soldiers and Airmen to provide controlled vehicle access and traffic management in Douglas County neighborhoods impacted by severe weather.

Most of the volunteer Soldiers and Airmen were being briefed May 2 before integrating with local law enforcement at their designated areas of assignment. The Soldiers and Airmen will work in shifts managing traffic controls and conducting roving patrols to ensure residents' safety.

On May 1, a Nebraska Army National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crew flew Lt. Gov. Joe Kelly and FEMA and NEMA officials over the area to assess the damage.

"The Nebraska National Guard remains always ready with a robust team of professionals who are fully trained and equipped to accomplish all missions - including supporting local, state and national partners whenever requested to aid our fellow citizens in need," said Maj. Gen. Craig Strong, Nebraska adjutant general and NEMA director.