Updated Story:
Kentucky Army National Guard soldiers departed to the Caribbean on Thursday to assist in rescue and recovery efforts following Hurricane Irma.
According to a release, about 20 soldiers from the Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 238th Aviation deployed to the Virgin Islands with helicopters equipped for evacuations.
Kentucky Air National Guard members from the 123rd Special Tactics Squadron also deployed.
The soldiers are trained in rescue hoist operations to provide critical care while en route to hospitals.
A completion time frame is not yet set. Blackhawk pilot Chief Warrant Officer Steve Knight said the unit is planning to provide support for a couple of weeks and will assess further plans beyond that.
Original Story:
Kentucky Air National Guard soldiers are deploying to the Caribbean today to assist in search and rescue efforts following Hurricane Irma.
According to a release, soldiers of the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade head to the U.S. Virgin Islands and will await further instruction.
The Guard is loading two helicopters with medical evacuation equipment and personnel.
The brigade has aided in past hurricane relief efforts including Hurricane Katrina.
Several members recently returned from Texas where they assisted in Harvey response.
This story has been updated.
