Indiana Task Force One members assist in search and recovery efforts in Texas, in a photo posted Tuesday, July 22. Photo from Indiana Task Force One.

By Leslie Bonilla Muñiz
Indiana Capital Chronicle

INDIANAPOLIS — An elite team of Hoosier first responders returned home Monday following deployment to flood-devastated Kerr County, Texas.

“Despite Long Days, Stifling Heat, High Humidity and each member covering over 100 miles on foot…during the deployment…the opportunity to assist those affected by the deadly floods was an honor not taken lightly. Thank you for giving up your time with your own families to help bring closure to others,” the Indianapolis Fire Department posted on social media.

At least 135 people have been confirmed dead in the disaster, according to KXAN, while at least four others are still listed as missing.

Indiana Task Force One, composed mostly of firefighters, collectively has hundreds of hours of training in specialized rescue techniques for floods, structural collapses and more. It’s one of just 28 such squads across the country.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency first activated 49 members on Tuesday, July 8, several days after flash flooding rocked rural residents Friday, July 4.

Indiana Task Force One members assist in search and recovery efforts in Texas, in a photo posted Tuesday, July 22. Photo from Indiana Task Force One.

A second, 35-member wave was ordered to join Sunday, July 13, arriving about 12 hours later thanks to some chartered air travel help from the Texan CEO of a Hoosier lending software company.

While Indiana Task Force One members were away, Gov. Mike Braun launched an Emergency Alert Task Force to evaluate Indiana’s emergency systems and warning capacity. A report with recommendations is due to him by November 1.

However, Task Force One hasn’t received any state funding since 1992, though it’s busier than ever before responding to the ever-increasing number of weather-related emergencies.

The unit returned by ground. The drive takes about 18 hours without stopping.