As many in Grand Rapids enjoyed abundant sunshine on Sunday and the first signs of spring, residents in northern Michigan were still grappling with the aftermath of the March 28 ice storm that left thousands without power. As communities work to recover from the devastating storm, the Michigan National Guard has stepped in to provide much-needed support.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer activated over 800 Soldiers and Airmen from the Michigan National Guard to assist in relief efforts. Among the units deployed is the 1073rd Support Maintenance Company from Greenville, along with several others. These units, primarily stationed at Camp Grayling Joint Maneuver Training Center, began deploying to the hardest-hit areas on April 3 to help clear debris, restore power, and deliver emergency supplies.
The ice storm, which caused widespread power outages, fallen trees, and blocked roadways, has left many communities in dire need of assistance. As of 12:30 p.m. today (April 7, 2025) 44,585 residents of the northeast Lower Peninsula were still without power. The Michigan National Guard’s mobilization comes as part of a comprehensive effort to restore access to essential services and ensure public safety across the region.
A Coordinated Response
Among the units activated are several engineering, maintenance, and military police companies. Units from cities including Lansing, Greenville, Traverse City, and Ypsilanti are participating in the mission, each bringing specialized skills to help clear debris, restore power, and deliver emergency supplies.
In particular, the Guard’s engineering units are critical to clearing roads blocked by fallen trees and other debris. Mobile chainsaw teams and specialized engineering equipment are working to remove obstacles and reopen vital transportation routes. The teams are also helping to restore access to emergency communication sites, ensuring that responders can continue coordinating efforts effectively.
“Our Soldiers and Airmen live and serve in the communities that are impacted by this ice storm and we are committed to helping our neighbors overcome this historic storm,” said U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. “We are working alongside our local and state agency partners to help clear roadways overcome by debris and supporting delivery of pallets of food to areas in need.”
Community Support
The National Guard’s efforts are not limited to debris clearing. Several teams have also been working alongside state and local agencies, such as the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan State Police, and Michigan Department of Transportation, to assist in power restoration and ensure the delivery of critical supplies like food to communities in need.
For those seeking assistance, Michigan residents are encouraged to contact Michigan 2-1-1, a free service that connects people with local resources and health services.
Moving Forward
While the cleanup efforts are ongoing, the Michigan National Guard remains committed to supporting local communities through the recovery process. With so many Guard members hailing from the very communities they serve, the response is both a professional and deeply personal mission for many.
To learn more about the state of emergency declared by Governor Whitmer or for additional updates, visit michigan.gov/dmva.
For up-to-date information about power outages, and how to donate, help or volunteer, visit this link at michigan.gov.
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