### 1,000 Soldiers Deployed to Western North Carolina for Helene Relief Efforts

In response to the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene on western North Carolina, up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers have been deployed to assist with relief operations. The White House announced this significant mobilization on Wednesday, as communities remain isolated due to catastrophic flooding in the region last week.

These soldiers will enhance the ongoing efforts by hundreds of North Carolina National Guard members already present. "These soldiers will speed up the delivery of life-saving supplies of food, water, and medicine to isolated communities in North Carolina - they have the manpower and logistical capabilities to get this vital job done, and fast," stated President Joe Biden.

Describing Helene as a "storm of historic proportion," President Biden expressed his sympathy for those affected and emphasized the government's commitment to continue support. "My heart goes out to everyone who has experienced unthinkable loss. We are here for you - and we will stay here for as long as it takes."

The deployment includes soldiers from the XVIII Airborne Corps based at Fort Liberty, North Carolina, featuring units from the 82nd Airborne Division. According to the Department of Defense, these troops are expected to reach western North Carolina within 24 hours.

The Department of Defense highlighted that the task force includes a Forward Support Company equipped with essential support structures such as fuel, water, and mechanical services. Their mission encompasses delivering supplies to impacted and isolated areas, managing supply logistics at staging locations, and clearing debris from obstructed routes.

Western North Carolina continues to grapple with extensive power outages, lack of water, and disrupted cell phone services five days after the hurricane. Flooding, mudslides, and downed trees have rendered many roads impassable. Although the North Carolina Department of Transportation has reopened Interstate 40 East, efforts to clear and repair smaller, crucial roads in the mountainous areas are ongoing.

President Biden is scheduled to visit the affected areas in North Carolina and South Carolina on Wednesday. During his visit, he plans to conduct an aerial survey of the damage, receive briefings, and meet with first responders and local officials, affirming that the Biden-Harris Administration will remain engaged until the recovery task is completed.