National Guard Supports Laurens County in Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts
October 1, 2024
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, recovery efforts in Laurens County are ongoing, now bolstered by the support of the South Carolina Army National Guard, led by Col. William Matheny. The Guard has mobilized debris clearance and chainsaw teams to help restore critical infrastructure. Speaking from the Laurens County Emergency Management Command Center, Col. Matheny detailed the Guard’s ongoing operations and the challenges posed by the county’s rural landscape.
“The initial focus was to open at least one lane on every road to ensure access and freedom of movement for our crews,” said Col. Matheny. “Now, we are shifting our resources to address more comprehensive road clearing efforts.” Currently, a debris clearance team and a chainsaw team are working within Laurens County, with additional out-of-state assets arriving to assist.
The 117th Engineer Brigade, commanded by Col. Matheny, is a key component in these efforts. The brigade is responsible for planning, integrating, and directing engineering missions across three functionally aligned engineer battalions. The unit provides tactical and technical guidance and command control to its teams, companies, and battalions, ensuring the effective execution of its missions. “Our engineers are some of the finest Soldiers in the South Carolina National Guard and have served their communities and nation during some of the most difficult times imaginable—both at home and abroad. I am honored to have the chance to serve with them,” said Col. Matheny.
Col. Matheny also emphasized that many of the most impacted areas in Laurens County are densely populated. “Electrical distribution works by nodes—so if you can repair the most concentrated areas first, you can help more people faster,” he explained. Despite challenges in rural regions, the Guard has been able to assess damage and prioritize resources with the aid of aerial reviews and ongoing communication with local officials.
Currently, out of the 966 total force, the South Carolina Army National Guard has 170 engineers on state active duty and 40 full-time personnel supporting 18 counties from Rock Hill to Edgefield and Aiken, and covering the western regions of the state. Their mission is to provide freedom of movement for crews, assess needs, and ensure the safety of residents. “Neighbors are helping neighbors, but we urge everyone to prioritize safety in all that they do,” Col. Matheny added.
Laurens County Administrator Thomas Higgs echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the community’s resilience while outlining the county’s role in the recovery. “Our county buildings may be closed, but we are all hands on deck,” Higgs said. “Employees from every department are stepping up to assist in any way needed.” Higgs also noted that select county staff and management team members have been camping out at the administrative offices to maintain operations.
Laurens County is currently in the rescue phase, with a focus on assessing humanitarian needs before transitioning fully into recovery efforts. “We’ve been communicating with the South Carolina Emergency Management Division to ensure we’re responding to the highest-priority areas first,” Higgs added. Beginning October 2, 2024, MREs, water, and tarps will be available for drive-thru pickup at 105 Bold Drive, as troops from Dillon, SC, arrive to manage the distribution center.
For those in need of shelter, The Ridge at 301 Exchange Drive in Laurens is open, offering air conditioning and electricity for charging devices.
As recovery efforts continue, Laurens County will begin planning for debris removal, which may include partnering with third-party contractors in the coming weeks. Public updates will be provided by Courtney Snow, Public Information Officer for the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office. A set schedule for briefings will soon be established to keep residents informed.
For the latest information, residents are encouraged to check the Laurens County website or call the Public Information Phonelines (PIPs) at:
- 864-681-2176
- 864-681-2177
- 864-681-2178
Property Damage Reporting: https://berkeleyco.readyop.com/fs/4cyt/2707e52a
Help Requests Email: [email protected]
Social Media Sites to follow:
South Carolina Emergency Management Division
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/dYciiAsF9RfMgBhA/?mibextid=WC7FNe
And the Laurens County Buzz
As the situation evolves, the community is urged to stay patient and continue supporting their neighbors by sharing resources and preparing to volunteer for the long-term recovery ahead.
