Hurricane Irma swept across St. Maarten on September 6, 2017, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Nine soldiers from the 11 Air Mobile Brigade, part of the Royal Netherlands Army, were decorated on December 14 for their unique efforts during Hurricane Irma in Sint Maarten. The Red Berets rose above themselves under harsh conditions, and received the group appreciation and carrying pin in the Netherlands from Lieutenant General Martin Wijnen, Commander of the Royal Netherlands Army.
The defense has a permanent presence in the Caribbean. Its tasks include intercepting drug transports and rescue operations at sea. In addition, Defense provides assistance after hurricanes. Hurricane Irma was the most powerful since 2005; no less than 91% of the buildings on the island were damaged and islanders were left devastated. The Ministry of Defence is providing emergency aid to a large extent. The military both the Royal Land Forces, Royal Air Forces, and Royal Military Police were sent to Sint Maarten just before the impact of the hurricane.
Defense restored connections and roads, helped evacuate the injured, and was deployed to prevent looting and maintain public order and safety. At the height of the disaster, more than 600 military personnel were on St. Maarten, while another 400 supported them from the ships Zr.Ms. Zeeland and Zr.Ms. Pelican.
The nine Land Forces soldiers of 11 Air Mobile Brigade showed more courage, resilience, helpfulness, sacrifice, independence, and physical deployability than could be asked of them during this period. During a small ceremony, they were therefore presented with the group appreciation and carrying pin.
