The spirit of Alaskans helping Alaskans is alive and strong as members of the Alaska Organized Militia, assigned to Task Force Bethel, continue their vital work supporting post-storm recovery across Western Alaska as part of Operation Halong Response.
Since the operation began, the coordinated efforts of the Alaska Air and Army National Guard, Alaska Naval Militia, and Alaska State Defense Force have made a measurable impact across communities affected by the severe storm system that struck the region earlier this year.
According to official updates, the response achievements to date include:
- Evacuation Flights: 26
- Total People Evacuated: 1,160
- Lives Saved: 51
- Boardwalk Cleared: approximately 30 miles
- Homes Surveyed or Inspected: about 580
- Homes Assisted (Insulation Removal): 50
- Debris Removed: 345 large bags and roughly 15,000 lbs of dirt
- Cargo Delivered (Air & Army Aviation): 130,000 lbs
- Combined Flight Hours: around 202
These statistics represent not only the scale of the operation but also the commitment of Alaskans working tirelessly to protect and restore their communities. From flying critical evacuation missions to delivering supplies and rebuilding damaged infrastructure, Task Force Bethel continues to operate with precision, speed, and compassion.
“Every flight, every bag of debris cleared, and every home restored reflects what it means to be an Alaskan, standing shoulder to shoulder when our communities need it most,” an official from the Alaska Department of Military and Veterans Affairs stated.
With hundreds of miles of rugged terrain and limited access routes, the coordinated efforts between air and ground teams have been essential in reaching isolated areas quickly. The operation underscores the strength of Alaska’s emergency preparedness and the unity among its military and civilian partners.
As Task Force Bethel continues its mission, the call of “Alaskans helping Alaskans” remains at the heart of every action, a powerful reminder of resilience and solidarity across the Last Frontier.
For ongoing updates on Operation Halong Response and recovery progress, visit the Alaska Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.
News Source: Alaska National Guard
