NETF-1 is ready to respond to any future federal requests, but their main mission is being a resource for the state and people of Nebraska.
The Nebraska Task Force One, an urban search and rescue team, continues its operations despite the ongoing federal budget negotiations that could potentially impact its funding. Based in Lincoln, this team is one of 28 FEMA-funded units nationwide, ready to deploy for disaster response. The team, which includes members from various local fire departments, has been involved in significant operations like the response to the 9/11 attacks and Hurricane Katrina. Currently, they are preparing for potential deployments while also focusing on local training and community engagement, such as teaching disaster preparedness to schoolchildren. Despite the uncertainty with federal funding, the team remains committed to its mission, with members expressing a strong sense of duty and readiness to serve.