January 14, 2010

MISSISSIPPI RESPONDING TO HAITI RELIEF EFFORTS

Governor Haley Barbour is directing the response of Mississippi state agencies to help people in the beleaguered nation of Haiti, whose country was rocked by a devastating earthquake on January 12.

"Many people have already called my office offering assistance and needing information; in time, that assistance will be sorely needed. We’ve been advised by federal authorities that, for now, only search and rescue personnel, equipment and supplies are being allowed into Haiti," Governor Barbour said.

To facilitate the flow of information regarding recovery efforts, the Governor has created a new link on his website. Some useful information is already posted regarding how Mississippians, charitable agencies, and private sources can contribute to recovery efforts.

Go to www.governorbarbour.com, then click on the "Help for Haiti" button.

"Knowing the kind of devastation caused by natural disasters, it's only appropriate that Mississippi join the federal government, other states, and private resources to help relieve the human suffering in Haiti," Governor Barbour said.

Already, the Mississippi Air National Guard has launched a C-17 Globemaster III and crew to pick up Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) personnel and equipment in Martinsburg, West Virginia. The flight will then proceed to Port-au-Prince, Haiti, where the DHHS workers will provide aid in earthquake recovery efforts.

"I'm very proud of our National Guard, especially when they are involved on so many fronts," said Governor Haley Barbour, commander in chief. "They always step up to the plate when their services are needed, and their services are definitely needed right now in Haiti."

"When tragedy strikes our Soldiers and Airmen always come to the front, regardless of the situation," said Maj. Gen. William L. Freeman, Jr., the adjutant general of Mississippi. "Our people and our assets will be standing by for any other recovery support that may be required."

The C-17s and crews are part of the 172nd Airlift Wing based at Thompson Field in Flowood. They also continue their medical evacuations flights into Iraq and Afghanistan.