In Salisbury, N.C., the National Guard aviation facility was a hive of activity as big fork trucks loaded FEMA pallets of water and emergency meals onto helicopters. National Guard air crews, including soldiers from eight other states, were given their missions by Chief Warrant Officer Nathaniel Ernst, a part-time Guard soldier on full-time duty for the disaster.
Despite an initial plan to head northwest towards Spruce Pine and Burnsville, the crew of Black Hawk 6279 was redirected to Creston, N.C. where locals quickly formed a line to help unload supplies. The crew distributed water and emergency meals to the community as volunteers like Jim Liska loaded pickup trucks with donated supplies.
Pilots from Goshen, Indiana, like Todd Eby and Grant Baker, flew in loads of supplies to Ashe County Airport, which had become a hub for incoming donations. The pilots, inspired to help after watching the vice presidential debate, expressed the importance of putting aside partisan differences to assist those in need.
Throughout the day, the Black Hawk crew witnessed a massive distribution network for supplies that included donations from various sources and volunteer efforts. They flew over distribution points at airports, churches, fire stations, and community centers in the remote mountains of North Carolina.
During an aerial survey over Ashe County, FEMA search and rescue team members guided the crew in identifying areas of significant damage and debris fields. The crew observed the devastating impact of the storm as they flew over homes swept away by rushing water and debris scattered along the riverbanks.
The crew also made unscheduled stops to investigate areas of interest, including a family clearing debris along the Watauga River. Bobby Lovejoy shared his experience of witnessing houses floating down the river during the flood and expressed surprise at the extent of the destruction.
As the day came to a close and the Black Hawk returned to Salisbury, Chief Warrant Officer Nathaniel Ernst reflected on the chaotic nature of their mission. Despite the changing plans and long hours of flying, Ernst emphasized the importance of persevering to support those in need.
The efforts of the National Guard, active-duty, and civilian helicopter crews in responding to the disaster highlight the dedication and resilience of those involved in providing aid and assistance to affected communities. The collaboration and support from volunteers and donors from various states demonstrate the unity and compassion in times of crisis.
