Troop Talk

The devastating flood that swept over Fort Bliss and El Paso broke a 50-year record. However, this event pulled a team of experts, volunteers and citizens together to create a partnership of unprecedented assistance throughout the community.

As water flooded the streets, crept into houses, pushed over buildings and swept away cars in the raging torrent, everyone involved worked tirelessly to minimize damage to property and to ensure the safety of all citizens.

The Installation Operation Center went on full alert and manning, supplemented by other agency representatives. Emergency planning paid off in this situation bringing a group of professional teams together from on and off post to deal with this emergency. Soldiers are the centerpiece of any operation, and the 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade with their maroon berets were easily identifiable in the downtown area assisting with the five-ton trucks loaded with sandbags. A total of 3,000 sandbags were made available to the city. Every brigade was on standby ready to assist as well.

At Fort Bliss, GMH and VT Griffin partnered to survey and repair immediate damages to homes and roads. Evacuation of 54 families to Milam Fitness Center was accomplished in record time, thanks to the ever-present incident commander Chief Billy Cannedy of the Fort Bliss Fire Department and the military police. Thankfully, the water problem and suspected gas leak was quickly dealt with and the residents could return home.
Environmental risks such as water, sewer, etc., were evaluated and monitored for possible action in case of health risks to citizens of both communities.

A review of actions taken always leads to ideas for improving a process. This was done early Wednesday with agency and command representatives. Some suggestions were to stockpile a larger supply of cots, blankets, sandbags and other items that could be needed in any kind of emergency. Commanders wanted a more direct line of communications with their troops on the ground.

Preventive Medicine warned residents that they should be alert for any sign of mold that could appear very quickly in their homes during this rain and humidity. Another warning is for the number of mosquitoes that all the rain will bring out and families should have a stock of repellant on hand. Snakes, while not found that often in residential areas could come down from the mountainous areas during this unusual climate of continuous rainfall. If any resident has any problem they need addressed, Directorate of Public Works, Work Order Section, GMH or the FBIOC is there for you if needed to answer questions and assist.

Fort Bliss, which sets high on La Noria Mesa, was fortunate, as damage to homes and property was limited. Some leaky roofs, damage to structures, road closures and a short evacuation for some were minor compared to what occurred in the city of El Paso. Although many Soldiers and families living in the community did have severe damage to their property. Leaders must be lenient with time off to ensure personnel have the time to take care of these problems. All in all, I am extremely proud of Team Bliss and all the hard work and dedication you have demonstrated during this critical time. Any leader would be proud of this “Team,” and rest assured, you made a difference to many people. Stay alert and focused. This situation may continue for some time.


Brig. Gen. Robert P. Lennox
Fort Bliss Commanding General