FEMA Deserves our "Thanks"

FEMA is being praised by political leaders for its role in Sandy, the mega hurricane. The US President, Governor Christie of New Jersey and mayors of New York and other large cities have lauded FEMA for its response and effectiveness.

But FEMA has also been in out of the way areas. Remote areas from Connecticut, the Appalachians, even Ohio are seeing how important FEMA is during times,of disaster. FEMA has been on point and on hand, saving lives and property. One must wonder who would be there for communities during these times if we did not have FEMA, the local sheriff or police department?

- WHO ELSE?     For decades FEMA has been the brainchild for disaster preparation and response. It is the model for nations throughout the world. Little noticed things such as Flood Maps which show the flood risk for homes and buildings throughout America are required resources for bank lenders in the USA.

Consider this hurricane, impacting 70,000,000 people, and yet due to warnings and preparation there have been very few deaths. Coordination and planning for emergency rescue, as well as pure response on multiple levels from utilities, clean up, and how to rebuild intelligently, all point to FEMA.

- BAD CALL BY SOME   This agency was criticized by Mitt Romney just 3 weeks ago when he suggested cutting FEMA and hinting that he might eliminate the agency. Paul Ryan, VP candidate actually cut FEMA in his budget proposal. Ryan and Romney have refused comment and failed to answer questions on this since the Hurricane Sandy hit.

-  JOB WELL DONE   We of Global Perspectives say to FEMA, "you are noticed, you are appreciated, and you have the support of the American people."