Rutherford County plays its part for Hurricane Florence

Atlantic Hurricanes don’t have to hit Rutherford County for the county to play a role in disaster preparation and relief. A number of Rutherford County civil and government organizations turn to the emergency checklists and start executing plans long in the making or set in motion with a phone call.

Smyrna/Rutherford County Airport

The Smyrna/ Rutherford County Airport sheltered more than two dozen Ospreys and other more conventional U.S. Marine helicopters from North Carolina. The Ospreys and helicopters returned to North Carolina to perform storm relief and rescue missions in North Carolina and South Carolina.

John Black, executive director of the Smyrna Airport, said, “We always stand ready to support our military and have hurricane evacuation agreements with many bases along the East and Gulf coasts.” “When storms are approaching, these agreements are activated, and arrangements are made to provide support during their stay here at Smyrna Airport. By relocating to Smyrna, we were able to get them out of harm’s way, which is our way of showing our appreciation for what they do to keep US out of harm’s way.”

- Murfreesoro Post