Gov. Gregoire activates Washington National Guard in preparation for Hurricane Gustav

For Immediate Release: August 29, 2008

OLYMPIA � Gov. Chris Gregoire tonight issued the following statement on Hurricane Gustav:

�This evening, I activated the Washington National Guard to be at the ready to provide valuable assistance if needed to the states affected by Hurricane Gustav. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has predicted that Hurricane Gustav appears likely to strengthen and strike Gulf Coast states early next week.

�As we learned from Hurricane Katrina, proactive planning and quick emergency response can save lives. Once again, Washington state stands ready to do what is needed to assist in the response to this emergency in the Gulf Coast states.

"As requested by the Gov. Bobby Jindal of Louisiana, I have asked Washington's adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Tim Lowenberg, to place two KC-135 tankers and two Joint Incident Site Communications Capability systems on standby. In addition, Washington has valuable National Guard personnel and resources that can be readied and made available to assist in responding to Hurricane Gustav.

"Past experience has taught us the importance of being prepared and responding without unnecessary delay. Our thoughts and prayers remain with those in the path of Hurricane Gustav."

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