Kansas Army and Air Guardsmen deploy for state active-duty mission
“The street conditions varied depending on the neighborhood,” said 1st Sgt. Dominic Cantu, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1-635th Armor. “The areas we focused on were heavily damaged with trees down, debris blocking roadways, and unpassable roads. After the first day or two of assessing the situation, we recommended some additional equipment to use that would be greatly beneficial. We coordinated with the Joint Operations Center, and they were extremely helpful and helped work though issues with broken equipment.”
The clean-up effort resulted in approximately 275 dump truck loads totaling more than 3,200 cubic yards of debris.
“The state active-duty mission went very well,” said Pfc. Ethan Clay, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1-635th Armor. “Having the proper equipment available made the loading process more efficient and eliminated the need to load the larger pieces by hand. Splitting into two smaller groups also helped streamline operations, allowing both teams to work simultaneously and complete tasks more efficiently.”
“We are proud to answer the call,” said Staff Sgt. Matthew Muntzel, 190th Civil Engineer Squadron, 190th Air Refueling Wing, “not just as Soldiers and Airmen, but as servants to our community, ready to build, restore, and help those in need.”
In addition to helping the community, the Guardsmen were afforded the opportunity to work alongside Soldiers and Airmen they usually don’t meet.
“It is truly inspiring watching these Soldiers and Airmen come together to help a community in their time of need,” said Capt. James Sudduth, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 891st Eng. Bn. “The hard work, dedication, and professionalism showed that the National Guard can respond at any time.”
“This deployment showed that the Kansas National Guard can respond with units that don’t typically work together and successfully complete the mission,” said Cantu. “It makes me proud of these Guardsmen who volunteered to assist the community in a time of need.”
Aside from assisting the citizens of Wyandotte County, the mission was personally rewarding for the Guardsmen.
“Being activated to assist with disaster cleanup and recovery gives us an opportunity to put our training and equipment to work for the people who need it most,” said Tech. Sgt. Dillon Dreyer, Det. 1, 184th Wing. “It’s hard work but knowing we’re helping families and communities get back on their feet makes it worth it.”
“This was the first state active-duty mission I’ve been a part of, and it was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had,” said Sgt. Fabiola Umanzor, 242nd Engineer Company. “The community support was unparalleled which made the mission a success. I will answer the call every time for a mission like this.”
“My first state active-duty experience was a great opportunity for me to grow as a leader,” said Sgt. Jsaquan Alexander, Company C, 1-635th Armor. “I was able to work alongside my lieutenants to help keep things organized, and make sure the mission continued to flow smoothly. It reinforced for me that leadership isn’t just about giving direction, it’s about being present, supporting your team, and helping everyone accomplish the mission together.”
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