Military shores up hurricane response, but high public expectations create

[Rose Siding]

Military shores up hurricane response, but high public expectations create concern

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (AP) -- Ahead of the hurricane season that starts June 1, the Pentagon is buying cellular and satellite phone vans, cutting paperwork to speed delivery of aircraft, troops and supplies to stricken areas and already is sending military officers to Gulf states...

"The expectations of our citizens ... have gotten so high that regardless of the responder -- local, state, National Guard and Defense Department -- folks will be disappointed that they can't get everything they need right away,'' said Adm. Timothy Keating, commander of U.S. Northern Command. "We have to manage expectations.''

Sitting in his office in the shadow of Colorado's Pikes Peak, Keating explained why the military would respond more quickly this year to a disaster: months of preparations and disaster drills; streamlined procedures; and the storage of "massive amounts'' of food, water, ice and millions of military MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) in the region.
...
Keating now has the power to send some military aid without waiting for approval up the chain. In addition, the Pentagon has set up new procedures to cut the waiting time for action on requests for helicopters, small boats, communications and medical equipment, and other military resources.
...
But, right now, more than nine months after Katrina, the military has just one mobile communications van ready to rush in with a portable cellular phone tower, and dozens of computers and mobile phones. Rear Adm. Nancy Brown is hoping that three more on order will arrive in time for the storm season.

http://wvgazette.com/section/APNews/News/ap0526n

[babylonsister]

1. Citizens' expectations have gotten so high? What's this guy

smokin'? He's basically saying that they're doomed to failure before a hurricane even hits?

From the article: But, right now, more than nine months after Katrina, the military has just one mobile communications van ready to rush in... This is part of the problem. Please don't blame your lack of organization on the citizens.:eyes: