This video from CBS gives us a very important picture into what one element of the U.S. government response to the massive Hurricane that is currently ravaging the Louisiana and Gulf Coast at this time. The United States Coast Guard is prepared and is jumping into action as I write this.
As you may know, Hurricane Ida came ashore in Louisiana on the same day 16 years ago that Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans and so much of the Louisiana Gulf Coast. Ida is at least the same dimension in size as Katrina was and the damage has already been great.
New Orleans has undergone major upgrades in its infrastructure since Katrina, but it is yet unknown as to how those improvements will succeed in avoiding the disastrous damage that occurred in New Orleans 16 years ago. But all of that remans to be seen. The immediate realities of possible massive rescue operations is where the situation is at this moment.
The United States Coast Guard will be, and is on the front lines in this effort at this time. The Coast Guard’s plans and abilities are paramount in situations like this. You will get a good sense of what their preparations have been, what resources they will be deploying and all of the elements of assessment and rescue that they will be in charge of over the next hours and days.
As you listen to this Coast Guard Commander explain what they will be doing, keep them and the people of Louisiana and the other Gulf Coast states who are being directly effected by this monstrous storm in your thoughts and prayers.
We give our respect and thanks to all of those United States Coast Guardsman and women who are presently engaged in this huge effort.
Semper Paratus! Our hearts and prayers are with you all for your safety and your success.