U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Support to Domestic Incidents under the Stafford Act
Abstract
One of the fundamental roles of all levels of government is to respond to domestic emergencies to save lives, protect property, and promote public health and safety. Considering the significance of this response mission, the development and refinement of doctrine, practices, and procedures justifies at least as much emphasis as military operations abroad. "FM 3-0, Operations" puts support to civil authorities on par with offense, defense, and stability operations. Today, USACE continues to provide vital assistance to the nation prior to and during disasters. The disaster response and recovery process is complex and dynamic, often requiring USACE to assume a multifunctional role. Within this system USACE acts in support, under the auspices of the Stafford Act, providing assistance to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the areas of public works and engineering: Emergency Support Function #3 (ESF #3). In the role of Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA), also under the authority of the Stafford Act, USACE supports U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) with augmentation of Title 10 forces. This monograph defines and examines these roles, identifies inefficiencies and points of tension that inhibit USACE in its response to domestic incidents in the ESF #3 and DSCA roles, and offers potential solutions to increase the effectiveness of USACE in response to domestic incidents.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA506141
Entities
People
- William B. Moen
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College