U.S. Military Bolsters Maui Recovery Efforts Following Devastating Wildfire

Army Gen. Charles A. Fynn
Views: 484
0 0
Read Time:1 Minute, 52 Second

“After the recent devastating wildfire in Lahaina, Maui, the U.S. military has intensified its support role in the recovery process. Just a week following the wildfire that left over 100 lives lost, the U.S. military’s presence has been instrumental in the ongoing search and recovery operations.

Army Gen. Charles A. Fynn, the leading commander of U.S. Army Pacific, touched down in Maui this Tuesday. He promptly joined forces with the command structure of the Combined Joint Task Force 50 (CJTF-50). This elite task force comprises dedicated personnel from the Hawaii Army, Air National Guard, Army Reserve, and active duty, all collaborating closely with Maui County’s local authorities. Their mission? To ensure immediate safety, security, and assistance to the wildfire-affected communities.

Combined Joint Task Force 50
Combined Joint Task Force 50 search, rescue and recovery elements conduct search operations of areas damaged by wildfires in Lahaina, Maui, Aug. 15, 2023. Members of CJTF-50 from the Hawaii Army and Air National Guard, Army active duty and Reserve are actively supporting Maui County authorities to provide immediate security, safety and well-being to those affected by the wildfires to ensure unwavering support for the community of Maui and first responders.

Under CJTF-50’s directive, specialized search, rescue, and recovery teams are combing through the wildfire-ravaged regions of Lahaina. But that’s not all – U.S. Marines and Army personnel are tirelessly working to transport essential cargo to impacted areas, meeting immediate needs.

The Hawaii National Guard has been pivotal in this effort. With an activation of over 250 soldiers and airmen, their tasks encompass providing liaison support to the Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, overseeing command and control strategies, and supporting local law enforcement operations. Furthermore, the expertise of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is at play in Lahaina, as they undertake the daunting tasks of debris removal and power restoration.

Damaged buildings and trees of Lahaina Town
Damaged buildings and trees of Lahaina Town destroyed in the Maui wildfires in Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii, Aug. 15, 2023.

As Maui grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, the cohesive efforts of the U.S. military stand as a testament to their commitment to national and local community support.”

Source: US Dept. of Defense