As the devastation from Hurricane Milton continues, logistics teams are critical to the national recovery effort. Among them is Will Rackcliff, logistics management specialist and regional logistics planner for the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Northwest Division, currently stationed in Jacksonville, Florida. Despite being based in Portland, Oregon, this deployment is personal for Rackcliff, who hails from Central Florida, an area hit hard by both Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

“My family members were affected in some way by Milton,” Rackcliff said. “From localized flooding, wind damage, debris and power outages. I let them know and tell them to spread the word about our capabilities. I am also able to explain the challenges we face in supporting the recovery.”

As part of USACE’s emergency response efforts, Rackcliff serves as a Logistics Emergency Response Matter Expert (CRSME) and Logistics Primary Response Team (LPRT) leader. His role places him at the center of coordinating logistical support for the recovery, which includes providing supplies, managing transportation, and working closely with federal, state, and local agencies.

“Our responsibilities include coordinating the delivery of critical supplies such as fuel, lodging assistance, resolving rental car issues and coordinating between the supported district and follow-up responders such as the Blue Roof team,” Rackcliff said. “My team and I are working closely with federal, state and local agencies to ensure that recovery teams have what they need to help affected communities.”

But the job is far from easy. According to Rackcliff, managing expectations and managing limited infrastructure resources are some of the most important challenges in a post-hurricane environment.

“The biggest initial challenge is managing expectations for responders who may not understand the damage to infrastructure, making it difficult to find resources and shelter,” he explained. “It takes them a while to be flexible in the face of challenges, especially when they’ve never deployed before. We also need to mitigate delays in essential supplies when FEMA is not set up for direct support at the onset of the event.”

Rackcliff’s deployment to Jacksonville is one of many in his extensive USACE career. With nine years of experience leading LPRT teams and multiple deployments, including five to Afghanistan, Rackcliff is well-prepared for the complexities of disaster recovery.

“My previous experience as a Combat Engineer (Sapper) and as Chief of Logistics for all USACE Afghan operations has honed my skills in organization, flexibility, decision-making and team leadership, particularly in high-pressure environments,” said Rackcliffe.

The work USACE Logistics teams do is often behind the scenes, but critical to the overall recovery mission. Logistics support ensures that emergency responders and recovery personnel have the tools and resources to help those affected.

“From providing personal protective equipment to making sure vehicles are fueled and operational, logistics support ensures responders can do their jobs,” Rackcliff said. “It also involves managing supply chains to prevent delays and ensure resources are replenished as needed.”

Despite the hardships, Rackcliff takes pride in knowing that his work directly benefits the people of Florida, many of whom are family and friends.

“This is personal to me,” he said. “We are working with partners at all levels of government to restore services, deliver supplies and rebuild infrastructure.”

For Rackcliff, the chance to serve in this capacity is an opportunity to give back to his community and make a lasting impact. USACE employees often find themselves in positions where their work directly affects the communities they live in and care about, something Rackcliff deeply values.

When asked what advice he would give to others considering joining a logistics emergency response team, Rackcliff encouraged those interested to take advantage of the opportunity.

“Joining a logistics emergency response team is challenging but deeply rewarding,” said Rackcliff. “It takes flexibility, quick thinking and a strong commitment to helping others. This experience also prepares a person to face many of life’s challenges.”

As recovery efforts continue in the wake of Hurricane Milton, Rackcliff’s work and the work of his fellow USACE logistics team members will remain critical to helping communities rebuild and recover. With close ties to the region, Rackcliff’s deployment exemplifies the dedication and personal connection that many USACE employees bring to their work, ensuring they make a positive difference where it matters most.