Training and expeditionary capacity ensure timely action in disaster situations
By Marine Ranger (RM2-T) Milena Ribeiro – Rio de Janeiro, RJ
It was 11 p.m. on a Carnival Monday when the Brazilian Navy’s (MB) Marine Operational Group (GptOpFuzNav) in Support of Civil Defense was called out for a mission in São Sebastião (SP). About 12 hours later, the troops were ready to embark for the city hit by the heavy rains.
The immediate response, on February 20, 2023, reinforced the importance of the rapid and strategic deployment of the GptOpFuzNav. “Despite the challenge, it is through planning and intensity that we keep the Marines able to provide the support that the Brazilian population needs,” says the Group’s Commander, Captain Luís Felippe Valentini da Silva.
This preparation process includes perfecting techniques and recognizing the regions most prone to natural disaster risks. The characteristics of each operation determine the type of action required – setting up a field hospital, search and rescue, clearing roads and distributing donations.
Activating the group
The GptOpFuzNav in Support of Civil Defense was activated by MB in December 2023 and is expected to remain on standby until March. The deployment arose from the need to anticipate unforeseen events by having a contingent focused on emergency actions during a period that historically sees heavy rainfall, especially in the Southeast region of Brazil.
“All units of the Fleet Marines Force are qualified to be part of groups in support of Civil Defense. Currently, the GptOpFuzNav, activated specifically to support Civil Defense, has 373 military personnel and more than 30 vehicles ready to respond within 24 hours of being activated,” said the GptOpFuzNav Commander.
Also reinforcing the structure are special vehicles for transporting and storing water, fuel and refrigerated material; nine light vehicles, including ambulances and engineering equipment for clearing roads and removing debris, including a backhoe, a tractor and a dump truck.
Source: Agência Marinha de Notícias *** Translated by DEFCONPress FYI Team ***