LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Governer Gretchen Whitmer has announced the approval of her request for National Guard Support amidst the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.
The request was granted Monday by President Donald Trump. The approval grants Whitmer’s request to allocate and order up to 3,000 members of the Michigan Army and Air National Guard for up to 90 days to perform humanitarian missions across the state.
Under the grant, Whitmer will utilize the National Guard for performing the following tasks:
- helping run mobile screening facilities;
- distributing food and medical supplies;
- ensuring resiliency of supply lines;
- disinfecting public spaces, and
- supporting public safety when required.
“This is good news for Michiganders everywhere who are worried about COVID-19’s impact on their community,” said Governor Whitmer. “Now, our dedicated National Guardsmen and women can help ensure access to meals for families who need them, or medical supplies for our health care professionals. They’ll help us get Michiganders tested and keep our public places clean. I’m happy that the federal government granted this request, and will continue to work closely with them as we slow the spread of COVID-19 together.”
The National Guard has already begun working at four different food banks in Michigan as of March 30. They will be posted at food banks in Ann Arbor, Comstock Park, Flint, and Pontiac. Approximately 10 Michigan National Guard members will be serving at each site.
“The aid that men and women of the Michigan National Guard will provide to Food Banks across Michigan is further proof that the Michigan National Guard is a true cornerstone of Michigan communities,” Whitmer said. “I could not be more proud of their service, commitment, and determination, and they are making a difference in the state’s response to COVID-19.”
In doing so, the National Guard will be working to distribute bagged food to citizens. They are also working with the Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to assemble and load critical personal protective gear, such as face masks and gowns.
“The Michigan National Guard is ready and eager to assist Governor Whitmer as she works to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our state,” said Major General Paul Rogers, Adjutant General and Director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “Our number one priority is protecting Michigan families from harm, and the federal government’s action today will help us do just that. We look forward to working closely with the governor to ensure our families are protected during this crisis.”
Governor Whitmer first requested Title 32 authorization on March 18. National Guard personnel are not federalized under this act, as the National Guard of each state is at the command of the Governor, although they will work with the Department of Defense.
The COVID-19 outbreak is an ongoing situation. The latest information The latest information can be found at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.
