Military Members Chainsaw for Tornado Relief

We had heard all about the tornadoes in the media, had seen the wrenching pictures, and had even weathered out some severe weather in Montgomery.  And being in th profession of serving our countrymen, the minds of my friends and I naturally turned toward how we could help.  

I was in Montgomery with many other Air Force officers, attending a five week long leadership training course at Maxwell Air Force Base.  And with a Saturday free, several of my classmates and I decided to head up to Tuscaloosa AL to see if we could be of assistance.  After a quick breakfast in Montgomery, the six of us made the two and a half hour drive north, ending at the Tuscaloosa Volunteer Reception Center.  

The courteous staff at the VRC gave us an inbrief, and quickly learned that the six of us were interested in clearing debris.  (What goes better than helping our neighbors and playing with chainsaws?)  So they sent us off to assist at the home of several law enforcement officers who had not yet been able to clear their yards.  We made short work of that, chainsawing up the fallen trees and hauling all the debris to the curb for later pickup.  After clearing those yards, we met John, a semi-professional chainsaw operator who had driven up from Louisiana to help.  Noting his expertise and copious chainsaws, we joined forces and assisted in clearing another 5 yards before the days end.  

By the time we wrapped up around 5PM, we were exhausted and dirty - from hauling trees all day!  We headed back to the VRC to donate the two chainsaws that we had purchased for the day to the VRC staff - for use in the continuing cleanup efforts.  The staff was very excited - and we were just glad that we could help.  Hopefully those saws have seen some good use and have been able to aid many more families.  

After dinner at a local eatery, the six of us saddled up for the tired two and a half hour haul back to Montgomery - getting in around 10:30PM.  I think we all collapsed and fell asleep instantly!  

In just one day, the six of us were privileged to be able to assist seven families that had been affected by the storms - a small difference, but an honor for us!  

Check out the attached pictures.  

~Capt Matt Hale 

On behalf of the members of Squadron Officer School, Course 11D, Flight A17