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- Elite US rescue teams head to Venezuela after deadly quakes (usatoday.com)
Specialized American search and rescue teams have been deployed to Venezuela to assist in the aftermath of two powerful earthquakes that struck the country this week.
The elite units, including urban search and rescue teams from Fairfax County, Virginia; Los Angeles County, California; and Miami-Dade County, Florida, were activated by the U.S. Department of State. They are working alongside a regional disaster assistance response team to provide critical support on the ground.
Virginia Task Force 1 expressed their commitment on social media, stating, “When disaster strikes, we answer the call. We are honored to represent the United States in this mission, bringing our expertise, compassion and unwavering dedication to support those affected.”
The twin earthquakes, measuring 7.5 and 7.2 in magnitude, struck off the coast west of Caracas on June 25, just moments apart. The consecutive shocks caused widespread devastation, resulting in at least 235 fatalities and over 4,300 injuries. Rescue efforts continue as hundreds remain trapped beneath the rubble.
Los Angeles County’s 71-member team reported sending 84,000 pounds of equipment along with six canine units drawn from the county’s Fire Department, Public Works, and Health Services. “We are proud and thankful to represent the U.S. on this mission,” they shared via social media.
Virginia’s 79-member task force, also accompanied by six search dogs, arrived in Venezuela midday Friday. The team recently took part in a strategic airlift exercise at Dover Air Force Base, working with the State Department and Air Mobility Command to enhance deployment efficiency. Their motto is clear: every minute saved in deployment translates into valuable time for those in need.
Meanwhile, Miami-Dade’s 80-member Urban Search and Rescue Team, known as Florida Task Force 1, prepared to deploy Friday evening. The team brings extensive experience, having responded to major crises such as the Oklahoma City bombing, the World Trade Center collapse, Hurricane Katrina, and the Surfside condominium collapse.
“From the moment we learned of this tragedy, our team has remained on standby, ready to respond,” said the Miami-Dade team. “Many in our community have family, friends, and loved ones in Venezuela, making this mission especially meaningful. We deploy with one purpose: to provide hope and help those affected during this difficult time.”
As rescue workers continue their efforts amid the devastation, these U.S. teams stand ready to bring expertise and support to Venezuela’s recovery.
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- Elite US rescue teams head to Venezuela after deadly quakes (usatoday.com)