1. Role of the Military in Disaster Response.
During the events of 9/11, the military scrambled fighter jets that were tasked with
patrolling the skies around Washington, D.C. and New York City. In the wake of Hurricane
Katrina and other disasters, the military has been called on to respond to communities in
dire need. The United States Coast Guard was praised for the rescue of over 33,000 people
during and after the storm. The deployment of military personnel and equipment was the
fastest and largest in United States history. The National Guard of each state plays a
significant role in responding to domestic disasters. There are disputes, however, about
federalizing the National Guard because this might signal that relations between the
president and the governor of the respective state may have broken down. Other questions
surrounding the use of deadly force by National Guard troops, and the issue of declaring
martial law to maintain civil order, loom large in the debate. For this Discussion, consider
the role of the military in disaster response. With these thoughts in mind: By Day 4 Post a
brief explanation of the role of the military in disaster response. Then explain any positive
or negative impacts the military may have on disaster response.
