Oklahomans leading the way in helping those impacted by Hurricane Katrina

Many Oklahomans have been in Louisiana all week helping in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. <br/><br/>Tulsa nurses are treating patients. Oklahoma churches are distributing food. Chain saw crews

Wednesday, September 7th 2005, 6:42 am

By: News On 6

Many Oklahomans have been in Louisiana all week helping in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Tulsa nurses are treating patients. Oklahoma churches are distributing food. Chain saw crews and utility companies are working to clear debris and Oklahoma National Guard members are answering the call.

Oklahoma's 45th Infantry Division calls a Wal-Mart parking lot in New Orleans home for now. More than 3,000 Oklahoma National Guard members are part of a force of 14,000 soldiers on the ground in hurricane damaged areas.

Oklahoma soldier: "Every soldier down here is very proud of the opportunity to come down here and help fellow Americans in this very very terrible catastrophe."

The 45th Infantry will provide security and help with search and rescue efforts. The Oklahomans will lead the task force.