FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
National Guard Continues Support Operations in Boston
Massachusetts National Guard
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass., April 17, 2013 - The Massachusetts National Guard continues to assist local and state authorities following the April 15 Boston Marathon bombings that left three dead and more than 180 people injured.
However, civil support personnel from New York and Rhode Island have returned home.
As of early today, more than 780 troops were still on state active duty.
Earlier, more than 1,000 Guard members were on duty continuing to assist local, state and federal authorities and provide support to the city of Boston.
Current missions include transit and perimeter security to the main area affected by the explosions.
"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and families that have been affected by this tragedy," said Air Force Maj. Gen. L. Scott Rice, the adjutant general of the Massachusetts National Guard.
"The National Guard can be relied upon for our diverse emergency response and rapid deployment capabilities during times of need in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts," Rice added.
The missions the National Guard supports are requested by local and state civilian authorities and coordinated through the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency.
The Massachusetts National Guard's 79th Troop Command is providing command and control of all soldiers and airmen activated for the support mission in Boston. As of today, aviation personnel stood down.
