SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- 20th Fighter Wing emergency response teams prepared for the possibility of high winds and flooding brought on by Tropical Storm Ian, which is anticipated to reach the local area by Friday morning.
“Team Shaw is leaning forward and preparing the base to ensure that our Airmen, Soldiers, and families are postured for Tropical Storm Ian’s arrival,” said 20th Fighter Wing commander Col. Kristoffer Smith. “Our goal is to keep people safe and off the roads as much as possible as the storm impacts the area, all while continuing to ensure seamless support for our critical missions.”
Airmen from the 20th Civil Engineer Squadron prepared barriers, cleaned storm drains, fueled back-up generators and provided materials for units to secure facilities with sandbags.
"Our engineers, to include our emergency responders, have prepared all week for the potential impacts from the storm,” said 20th Civil Engineer Squadron commander Lt. Col. Jimmy Oxendine. “We stand ready to respond anytime, anywhere in support of Team Shaw and the Sumter community."
Base operations have been reduced as units transition to staffing essential personnel only on Friday in support of critical missions. Most base amenities will have modified or reduced hours in the interest of keeping personnel and families safe.
Team Shaw continues to monitor the situation. For the most current updates, visit www.shaw.af.mil or the Shaw Air Force Base Facebook page (www.facebook.com/20fighterwing).