Governor Corbett Thanks PA National Guard for Assisting N.Y., N.J.

Harrisburg - Governor Tom Corbett today thanked members of the Pennsylvania National Guard for their assistance to residents of New York and New Jersey affected by Hurricane Sandy.

"The dedicated men and women who serve in the Pennsylvania National Guard are always ready to serve at a moment's notice, whether it's helping flood victims in Pennsylvania, New York or New Jersey, or fighting for freedom across the world in Afghanistan,'' Corbett said.

"I am very proud of our troops,'' Corbett said, who served as a member of the Pennsylvania National Guard for 13 years, earning the rank of captain. "On behalf of a grateful commonwealth, I thank you all for your hard work and dedication in helping others at this difficult time.''

More than 400 soldiers and airmen from Pennsylvania were deployed to devastated areas to assist local authorities with communications and transportation, as well as distributing relief supplies, including food, water and fuel.

Troops from units in Johnstown, Washington, Easton, Coraopolis, Middletown, Annville and Horsham were deployed to New York, while additional guard members from Lebanon and Annville were sent to New Jersey. The troops returned this week after deployments of five to 13 days.

An additional 2,000 troops were placed on duty here in Pennsylvania at the peak of the storm, ready to help local officials in support of operations related to Hurricane Sandy.