In Guatemala, the authorities evacuated thousands who would have been endangered. Wilhelm said the lifesaving phase of emergency has ended and the command is moving now into a rehabilitation phase. Beginning Nov. 23, active and reserve component soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines will begin deploying to the region. Wilhelm could not say how long the troops will be needed. Nev. Wilhelm said the U.S. military will send 20 more helicopters to the area to help in the rehabilitation effort.
Ships are on their way to deliver heavy engineering equipment.
Wilhelm said Southern Command personnel have worked well with the international aid effort. They didn't wait for orders, they just went on and did the job. 345 helicopter airlift missions Sgt.