We have all seen images of the devastation that hurricanes Katrina and Rita left behind. Navy reservist Ensign Tamara Williams has seen it firsthand.

Attached to Reserve Intelligence Area One, Williams, in civilian life, is a logistics officer for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and an American Red Cross disaster volunteer.

Her positions in these agencies require Williams to always be on standby. However, she was deployed overseas receiving naval training when the hurricane hit.

“I got my deployment orders [to New Orleans] from Red Cross the day before Katrina came through,” Williams said. “I had to complete my assignment with the Navy before I could go, so I wasn’t able to report until two days after.”

Williams spent several weeks in the hard-hit areas of the Gulf States, seeking out survivors and offering assistance.

“I would offer them food and water and call for a medical team to evaluate them,” said the Hawaii native. “I’ve always tried to make an effort to offer whatever assistance I can to people in need. I am really thankful for the freedom to live in a country where we can help when it is needed.”

She said balancing her military commitment with her civilian career isn’t that difficult for her.

“Many companies and agencies such as FEMA are military friendly,” she said. “They are glad to have military members on staff because they know that our ideas and training make us unique. My work with the military has afforded me the opportunity to develop liaison skills that have proven beneficial with FEMA and the American Red Cross.”

Regarding media complaints surrounding recovery efforts, Williams said there is more to the story that many people aren’t hearing or seeing. “There were literally thousands of people there to help,” she said. “The residents were so grateful we were there and we were all just glad to help.”

Williams isn’t sure if she will be returning to the area to resume her work with relief efforts, although she said she would like to eventually assist people in need overseas.

“The hurricane season isn’t over yet,” she said. “They may need me back there or they may need me in another part of the country. I won’t know until the time comes.”

In any event, Williams said she is looking forward to being there and ready to help.

“I hope that I can continue to serve in capacities like this throughout my life,” she said.