The section of the transcript with Mr. Aaron Broussard, president of Jefferson Parish, should be required reading of all emergency management personnel before proceeding with another task. I especially like where he says that he closed the levy in 2 to 3 days, without waiting on anyone. . . using whatever was at hand. . . he strong armed it . . or "jammed" it. That is how you make things happen. You start doing them until they are done.
The New Orleans situation is still unfolding before our eyes, as I still do not see the city teaming with boats and can only ask, "why"??
Dehydration sets in after just 3 days. There could many thousands who fully survived the storm and even the flood waters, but died of dehydration.
I maintain that Tuesday, any rescue personnel with their own water, food and fuel should have been allowed in.
The person or persons who ordered this equipment and personnel to turn back, however high up the ladder, should stand accountable for their actions and inactions. This was a travesty against humanity and I believe a formal investigation should be launched by congress to determine an accurate timeline. When every minute counted, too many balls were dropped.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. . . Wal-mart water turned away . . . thousands of law enforcement officers and rescue personnel in pontoon boats, high water trucks, aircraft, airboats and the like . . . experienced in flood rescue were turned away. . . medical doctors turned away. . . Salvation Army trucks turned away on Tuesday and Wednesday finally were allowed in today (Sunday). CNN reporter said, "it took 6 days for the Salvation Army to arrive". Not true. It took 4 days for FEMA and or military to clear them to enter.
Rande Is |
