SUMMARY: Governor Bill Lee announced that $100 million in state-funded loans is available for counties affected by Hurricane Helene through the Helene Emergency Assistance Loans (HEAL) program. Eligible counties include Carter, Claiborne, and Greene, among others. Additionally, $35 million will assist with damaged water and wastewater systems. Lee emphasized the urgency of immediate relief, as communities cannot await federal aid due to extensive hurricane damage. Over 4,800 residents have registered for FEMA assistance. The Tennessee Department of Transportation is seeking property owner permissions for repairs on damaged roads. The storm tragically resulted in 17 fatalities.

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SUMMARY: A brief 8-second news clip of a helicopter marked a significant moment for Vietnam veteran William Phillips, now 73, as it featured the last American ground combat troops leaving Vietnam 52 years ago. Drafted just before his 19th birthday, Phillips reflects on the challenges and losses faced during the war, including a friendly fire incident that resulted in the deaths of four fellow soldiers. He emphasizes the camaraderie among infantrymen and recalls moments of fear and survival. Despite his service finishing, the impact of his experiences remains profound as he seeks recognition for his unit, the 196th Light Infantry Brigade.

An 8-second clip of helicopters lifting U.S. troops out of combat in Vietnam stirred memories for one of the last soldiers pulled from the jungle.

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SUMMARY: Two detention centers in East Tennessee, the Cocke County Detention Center and the Courthouse Annex, sustained damage from Hurricane Helene, prompting the evacuation of inmates to neighboring Jefferson County. Long-term solutions are being explored, as other facilities face significant challenges, including sewer issues in Unicoi County Jail and water problems in Greene County. With a 6% increase in jail population, Tennessee’s jails are operating at approximately 85% capacity, with overcrowding primarily due to felony pretrial inmates. Rising construction costs hinder building new facilities, while the Department of Corrections struggles with a 27% vacancy rate for correctional officers.

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