The first aircraft with Afghan refugees arrived in the Hoosier state Thursday. In support of these Afghan evacuees, the Department of Defense is providing transportation, temporary housing, medical screening and logistics support for the Afghans’ safe relocation to the United States.
“The professionalism of Task Force Atterbury, as they prepared to receive Afghan refugees, is nothing short of impressive,” said Brig. Gen. Knell, Task Force Atterbury Commander. “The multi-agency, multi-component effort ensured we were ready to welcome them with open arms, providing dignity and respect to all.”
Approximately 2,500 Afghans can currently be temporarily housed at Camp Atterbury in Indiana, one of eight sites across the United States to host the Afghan refugees.
“As a Hoosier, I could not be more proud of our troops and active-duty soldiers who came together to help our Afghan allies in support of this mission,” said Brig. Gen. Dale Lyles, the Indiana National Guard adjutant general.
The Department of Defense, through U.S. Northern Command, and in support of the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State, will support at least 50,000 Afghan refugees at suitable facilities, in permanent or temporary structures, as quickly as possible.
