Kansas National Guard clears storm debris in Kansas City, Kansas
43 soldiers and airman helping to restore neighborhoods after power loss, tree damage
43 soldiers and airman helping to restore neighborhoods after power loss, tree damage
Soldiers and airmen from the Kansas National Guard are working to clear storm debris in Kansas City, Kansas, after residents spent more than a week without power.
The cleanup efforts are focused near 53rd Street and Leavenworth Road, spanning the area from 51st to 57th streets. Chainsaws ripped through trees as neighbors worked to move debris to the street, where the National Guard took over. A total of 43 soldiers and airmen are working in the heat and humidity to help restore the area.
Gov. Laura Kelly announced a disaster declaration on Aug. 21, mobilizing members of the National Guard from their day jobs to assist with recovery efforts.
"I never seen nothing like this before," said Darrell Alex, a resident who has been working since the storm hit.
"We're clearing debris, cutting down trees," Kansas National Guard 1st Sgt. Dominic Cantu said.
Using front-loaders and back-loading dump trucks, the soldiers and airmen cleared paths to help residents move forward.
"So just able to help out there and clear that path for them so they can get back to work is helpful, I believe," Cantu said.
"For these guys to come in here in this devastated area and pick up this debris and cut debris down. Hey, man, this is great," Alex said.
While the military continues its work, Alex remains focused on removing the tree that caused so much damage.
"My work ain't done yet," Alex said.
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