Smith/LoBiondo: New Jersey Search & Rescue Team Receives Federal Boost
Statement
U.S. Reps. Chris Smith and Frank LoBiondo announced today that the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Urban Search & Rescue Strategic Group has unanimously recommended that New Jersey Task Force One (NJ-TF1) enter the National US&R System.
"Once NJ TF1 receives final approval, this long overdue designation will bolster both our state and our nation's emergency preparedness," said Smith, whose district includes the NJ-TF1 Training Facility in Lakehurst. "The Task Force is an elite team that has long been recognized for their capacities and I urge FEMA to approve the final designation expeditiously."
"This important recognition from FEMA shows what we've known in South Jersey for a long time: The professionals of NJ-TF1 are among the best urban search & rescue personnel our country has to offer. Their skills have been put to the test and exceeded national standards, from the Tropicana parking garage collapse to Hurricane Sandy and countless other emergencies. I applaud Chief Jim Riley and his team for their continuing hard work," said LoBiondo.
Source