Almost 300 National Guard from Rock Hill-based unit deployed to flooding

Almost 300 Army National Guard soldiers from the Rock Hill-based 178th Combat Engineers are still deployed this week in flood recovery efforts across South Carolina.

Armories in Rock Hill, Fort Mill and Lancaster have sent 150 trucks, bulldozers, earthmovers, tankers and other equipment to use in the ongoing recovery effort, said Maj. Tom Meares, executive officer for the 178th.

Soldiers from the unit have been crucial to the repair work done to Beaver Creek Dam and the Columbia Canal – two of the most pressing problems facing the Columbia area. Others have done vital dam repairs and assessments to protect public safety.

The battalion deployed soldiers just hours after the flooding started Oct. 3. and will continue to have soldiers deployed this week, at least for several more days.

Sgt. Eric Kimbrell of Rock Hill, who is leading an assessment team in the Lowcountry, said his soldiers have had “long, hard days” but they are “proud to help the people of South Carolina.”

“Everywhere we go people are appreciative,” Kimbrell said.

Chester deputies volunteer at emergency shelter

Seven Chester County deputies took time off in recent days to volunteer at one of the Columbia shelters where the need was greatest.

The deputies asked for and received unpaid leave to work 12-hour shifts delivering supplies and providing help, said Lt. Johnny Neal.

“When our community needs us, in a time like this,” Neal said, “the whole state is our community.”

More deputies wanted to go assist flood victims, but with just over 50 sworn officers, the sheriff’s office could spare only seven officers.

Sheriff Alex Underwood, who volunteered in Columbia on Friday, said he is “most definitely” proud of how his officers responded to the need.

This story was originally published October 12, 2015 at 10:13 AM with the headline "Almost 300 National Guard from Rock Hill-based unit deployed to flooding."