This research discusses the challenges of providing a timely distribution of supplies and support during disaster relief operations that lack designated national stakeholders and systems. Historical lessons learned from past disaster relief operations reveal that similar trends existed. The creation of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and United States Northern Command (NORTHCOM) were essential in driving towards a more responsive federal approach to disaster relief operations. The lessons learned from the catastrophic Hurricane Katrina gave rise to what we witness today as the improved interoperability between the key stakeholders in disaster relief operations. Although there is improved interoperability, the ability of FEMA and NORTHCOM to gain a common operating picture continues to hamper operations. As a result, this research recommends revisions of the federal disaster declaration process as it relates to the use of Title 10 forces; improvement to FEMA's current operating procedures; perfecting NORTHCOM's employment of its military assets; and developing better relations with other disaster relief stakeholders.

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)