Michigan National Guard (MING) Members Recognized for Ice Storm Recovery Efforts

Several members of the Michigan National Guard (MING) were recognized for their work during the ice storm recovery efforts in northern Michigan.

LANSING, Mich. (WBUP/WJMN) — Several members of the Michigan National Guard (MING) were recognized by Michigan Major General Paul D. Rogers for their work during the ice storm recovery efforts in northern Michigan.

Rogers personally presented his challenge coin to eight members of the Task Force Red Lion due to their efforts cleaning felled trees and power lines, attending to Michiganders in need and clearing ice.

The Red Lions were also recognized to varying degrees by the U.S. Army for their efforts, which began when Gov. Whitmer activated MING on April 2.

A press release from the Army said Lt. Col. Alex Kashenider led the joint task force; he received the call about the activation while feeding his children at home.

“I thought, alright, I’m in charge of this. Fortunately, I have an outstanding staff behind me,” said Kashenider, who oversees the Army Reserve's 79th Sustainment Brigade at Fort Wayne, Indiana.

A mere 50 troops proved to be inadequate for the widespread destruction and need across the affected counties. Just days later, 800 soldiers were deployed to tackle recovery efforts.

“They’re doing hard work in awful weather, and they’re doing it with care. It’s unbelievable what we’ve accomplished,” Kashenider said.

After mobilizing her troops within 12 hours to support wellness checks and shelter operations in one of the hardest-hit areas, Alpena County, Capt. Jennifer Morrison and her unit delivered food and essentials to more than 1,800 people.

“It was the largest emergency distribution in the county’s history. The need was overwhelming,” said Morrison, who is assigned to the 1464th Transportation Company in Marysville, Washington.

Upon reflection of the efforts, which resulted in more than 500 cleared roads and 3,000 delivered meals, Kashenider said, "We’re part of these communities. We’re not just here to respond—we’re here to serve our neighbors. That’s the heart of the mission. We bring compassion to the fight."