Distribution Center Opens at Red River Army Depot
By: Import User
Updated: February 5, 2007
The military played a crucial role in keeping the peace after hurricane Katrina ravaged the gulf coast.
The Army is preparing for another nasty hurricane season., but its role will be much different this time around.
KTAL`S Jason Clark reports from the Red River Army Depot where workers are getting ready for the next natural disaster.
Under the blistering sun, a team of workers assemble a makeshift command center complete with computers, air conditioning, and even cable tv in record time.
(Wilard Peek / Team Leader) "We did it in about two hours."
This is the Army`s latest initiative to prepare for a natural disaster.
Its called a deployable distribution center.
(Brig. Gen. Mike Lally / Army) "We will receive, store, and set up supplies like water, ice, commercial food, cots, tents that will be needed in case of a natural disater."
Beyond the basics, the ditribution center is capable of setting up a state of the art communications base.
Satellite phones and wireless internet will keep team members connected.
The need for a distribution center became evident after hurricane Katrina.
The order was given to the Defense Logistic Agency to hire 66 people who will be ready to deploy at a moments notice.
(Lt. Col. Betty Yarbourgh / Army) "If they call upon us for the support, we`re going to be ready to go."
When not deployed the 66 member team will be split between two distribution centers, Red River, and San Joaquin Depot in California.
