Kentucky Guardsmen deploy to Caribbean for search and rescue operation

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WTVQ) – Soldiers from the Kentucky Army National Guard’s 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade left Thursday for the Caribbean where they will assist with search and rescue efforts in the wake of Hurricane Irma.

The Soldiers deployed to the U.S. Virgin Islands pending further instructions.

A National Guard C-17 Globemaster loaded two UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters, associated equipment and personnel at the Kentucky Air National Guard Base.  The two army aircraft are equipped with medical evacuation equipment necessary to accomplish the required search and rescue.

Several members of the brigade recently returned from Texas providing aviation logistical support for Hurricane Harvey’s response.

The Kentucky Army Guard’s 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade has extensive experience with disaster rescue and recovery operations and has been aiding in hurricane relief efforts since Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

“Kentucky’s aviators and crew members are highly trained in their craft and fully prepared to provide support to our neighbor states. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they work to assist residents who have been affected by Hurricane Irma and the potential historic devastation in the Caribbean and Southern Atlantic states.”