Black Hawks Soar: Arkansas National Guard Joins Texas Flood Rescue

Four UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopters and 22 soldiers are being dispatched to Austin, Texas, to assist in search and rescue operations from the flash floods that took the lives of over 100 people.

Call to Action: Arkansas National Guard Sent To Texas

According to KATV, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders ordered a call to action for the Arkansas National Guard early Tuesday morning, July 8. Two soldiers were ordered into state active duty and will coordinate with the deployment of the soldiers from Camp Robinson.

Pilots, crew chiefs, and six maintenance personnel were all part of the 22-member crew sent on the mission to help the Texas National Guard,  rescue teams, and other emergency personnel in continued efforts to locate people missing from the deadly flash floods and recovery.

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The Mission Operation

The mission also entails moving cargo, passengers, and hoisting capabilities when needed.  At least one Black Hawk crew will be utilized to provide medical assistance for evacuation support using modern technology to help in search and rescue efforts.

After receiving a request from officials for Emergency Management Assistance, Governor Sanders wasted no time in mobilizing the Arkansas National Guard and the four Black Hawk Helicopters. The operation is scheduled to run through July 12, 2025, but depending on the situation, it may last longer.