Response System

This General Memorandum solicits members of the National Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) Response System to participate in the newly established US&R Strategic Airlift Ad Hoc Group (AHG).

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Strategic airlift remains a critical component of FEMA US&R deployment operations. As deployment requirements, aircraft platforms, hazardous goods regulations, and logistical coordination continue to evolve, there is a need to standardize airlift readiness, planning, and execution across the System.

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The Logistics Functional Group recommended establishing a Strategic Airlift Ad Hoc Group to review current practices, identify gaps, develop recommendations, and establish standardized processes to support the rapid and efficient air deployment of US&R resources. Additionally, the group will assist in developing a cadre of subject-matter experts to support the FEMA US&R Branch during strategic airlift operations.

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Purpose of the Ad Hoc Group

The Strategic Airlift Ad Hoc Group will:

• Review and evaluate current airlift procedures and capabilities.

• Develop recommendations for standardized airlift guidance, checklists, and best practices.

• Evaluate training and exercise requirements related to airlift readiness.

• Review lessons learned from deployments and exercises involving strategic airlift.

• Provide recommendations to improve coordination between Task Forces, FEMA, and Aviation Transportation Support Services (ATSS) contractors.

• Identify and develop personnel capable of supporting FEMA US&R Branch airlift operations during activations.

 

Requirements

Interested personnel should possess experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Strategic airlift operations.

• Hazardous goods certification and compliance.

• FEMA US&R Form 18-023 Commercial Weights and Measurements.

• Air Response Module operations.

• Logistics management during federal US&R deployments.

• Aircraft loading, cargo preparation, or transportation planning.

 

Applicants should also demonstrate the ability to collaborate effectively, participate in meetings, complete assigned work products, and have support from their Task Force leadership.

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Application Process:

Per Annex A of the 201 - USR Administration Manual Annex A - Advisory Organization (Mar 2023), Section 3-1, E, Ad Hoc Applications: All potential members should complete an application using the submission link on responsesystem.org. The application and letter of support must be submitted by June 30, 2026. Within seven calendar days after the application closing date, the US&R Branch and/or their appointees will review the applications, determine if the candidates meet the required qualifications/knowledge, skills, and abilities for the available position, and ensure that each applicant has provided all required documentation, including the letter of support.

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Members will be appointed by the US&R Branch Chief for a term defined by the anticipated duration of the Ad Hoc Group. Membership terms shall begin on the date specified in the General Memorandum that announces the Ad Hoc Group’s establishment.

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If you have any questions regarding technical issues related to this strategic airlift initiative, please contact Scott Schermerhorn at scott.schermerhorn@fairfaxcounty.gov. If you have any questions about this solicitation process, please contact Keith Bevan at kbevan@unifiedfireut.gov or Buddy Ey at elwood.ey-iii@fema.dhs.gov