In the wake of Wednesday’s deadly storm, Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley has mobilized 2,000 Alabama National Guardsmen to help with search and rescue operations, debris removal and provide security assistance to local law enforcement agencies.

Staff Sgt. Chris Stinson said the 117^th Field Artillery Battalion, which is based in Greenville, has been placed on standby, but has not yet been activated.

“We got a warning order this morning, but as of right now we haven’t been activated,” Stinson said.

With the activation of the Alabama National Guard, the guardsmen were on the ground early Thursday morning to begin helping with the recovery process.

“I have activated the Alabama National Guard to provide assistance whenever and wherever they are needed to help our local communities that have experienced widespread destruction today,” Bentley said. “These guardsmen are well trained and will take every action necessary to protect lives and property in this emergency.”

Counties that have requested assistance from the Alabama National Guard include Marshall County, Tuscaloosa County, Limestone County, Cullman County, Jefferson County and Lawrence County.