NCJ Number
166456
Date Published
1995
Length
133 pages
Annotation
Active duty military support to civilian agencies is one of the few instances where requests for governmental assistance start from the local level and continue through State authorities to the highest levels of government.
Abstract
Military resources may be used to support civilian agencies and to promote the general welfare of the community. Such assistance may include public works, education, training, and construction projects. Military support to civilian agencies is authorized in the Federal Response Plan, also known as the Stafford Act. The role of the Department of Defense as a key player in the Federal Response Plan is discussed, with emphasis on emergency support functions and disaster response operations. Legal considerations associated with the commitment of military forces to support civilian agencies are examined. The importance of public affairs in planning and executing successful military support operations is emphasized, and lessons learned from previous military support to civilian agency operations are noted. A comprehensive list of Federal agencies is provided to show the interrelationships that exist during various responses to State and local needs. Appendixes contain a list of acronyms and abbreviations, a glossary, and a sample military after-action report. 7 figures