It has been two weeks since the Pennsylvania National Guard's 56th Stryker Brigade began its plodding way south to Louisiana, and the troops finally have hit a comfortable routine in the relief effort.
Operating from bases in Alexandria, Hammond and Belle Chasse, La., the brigade's six battalions have taken over the food distribution network around New Orleans. Units operate 10 distribution centers, giving residents MREs, water and ice at each location and receiving thanks, homemade food and Mardi Gras beads in return. [...]
