'Wisconsin will continue to extend our support': Gov. Evers visits Fort McCoy
FORT MCCOY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers and his administration visited Fort McCoy and delivered diapers and clothing to Afghan individuals and families on Wednesday, Aug. 25.
Gov. Evers was briefed on operations, planning, and medical processing by federal military personnel, officials say. He also received updates on Operation Allies Refuge.
“I was glad to have the opportunity to visit Fort McCoy today to speak with military leaders helping with Operation Allies Refuge, service members in the Wisconsin National Guard, and many Afghan people who are now located at Fort McCoy," Gov Evers said. "Our allies from Afghanistan have a long road ahead of them, and Wisconsin will continue to extend our support and assistance to these individuals who bravely contributed to our country’s efforts over the past two decades."
Gov. Evers said Wisconsin remains ready and prepared to continue to help Afghan allies.
“I want to thank Maj. Gen. Knapp, the folks of the Wisconsin National Guard, and Wisconsin Emergency Management for all their help and support for this federal mission," Gov. Evers said. "I am proud of the good work they are doing at Fort McCoy and Volk Field to respond to and assist our federal partners. Wisconsin remains ready and prepared to continue to help in any way we can to ensure a smooth, safe, and successful transition for our Afghan allies.”
The governor and the Evers Administration, in partnership with the Wisconsin Departments of Military Affairs and Children and Families, is coordinating and providing supplies of clothing, diapers, and other personal items for the families and individuals residing at Fort McCoy, officials say.
The Evers Administration says they will continue to coordinate with federal partners to assess and assist in the need for personal goods and supplies.
Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson also visited Fort McCoy on Wednesday. He said he has been brief on a little over 1,000 refugees, which is a mix of men, women, and children.
.@SenRonJohnson says he’s been brief there’s a little over 1,000 refugees at Fort McCoy. A mix of men, women, and children.
— Emilee Fannon (@Emilee_Fannon) August 25, 2021
His biggest concern is that he’s hearing some of them don’t have any ID’s and have not been property vetted. pic.twitter.com/7e7iKq12xn
Wisconsin residents interested in helping refugees and in the global response to the crisis in Afghanistan, can click here.