Marines Report From The Field

Story by Cpl. Rocco DeFilippis

Submitted by: 24th MEU

NEW ORLEANS (Sept. 11, 2005) -- As Americans view images on TV and in newspapers of the damage and flooding in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama, the Marines of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, and Bravo Company, 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion, are witnessing the power of mother nature first hand.

Arriving in New Orleans on Sept. 5, the battalions are part of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force St. Bernard, a joint effort of active-duty and reserve military units partnered with local law enforcement and emergency relief agencies. The Marines have been in the neighborhoods and communities most greatly affected by the storm.

Tasked with providing aid and relief to the citizens of Orleans and St. Bernard parishes, the Marines have spent the last six days patrolling flooded streets and searching collapsed buildings in an effort to rescue those left behind by the storm.

During their few days here, the two battalions have rescued at least 78 residents in eastern New Orleans, and as their mission moves toward focusing on the recovery process, the Marines of Bravo, 1/8, and 4th Tracks, stand ready to support their nation and a city in its greatest time of need.

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