EMA Press Release: Gov. DeWine authorizes National Guard to assist at food banks

March 18, 2020

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Gov. Mike DeWine signed a proclamation allowing the Ohio National Guard to assist at food banks.

During his Wednesday coronavirus update, he addressed the rumors circulating in various circles about the possibility of Ohio deploying the National Guard as the coronavirus pandemic spreads.

“Let me be clear: When the National Guard is going to be doing something, you’re going to know about it,” DeWine said. “Sometimes people think of calling out the National Guard means they’re going to have guns and they’re going to do some military operation. Please understand, the way the National Guard is used in the state of Ohio and other states is to help us, to assist us.”

DeWine said that the National Guard is being used to help those in need, such as during natural disasters, like floods or tornadoes, to transport and lift capacity.

“They can do wonderful things,” DeWine said, adding that when they are deployed for other things, they will be helping erect tents in hospitals and at food banks in Ohio. “That’s what you’ll see the Guard do in Ohio. If something changes, we will tell you.”