LUTZ, Fla. — A group of Tampa-area law enforcement known as the “Tampa Strong" platoon returned from deployment in the Panhandle Thursday.

The team, made up of officers from the Plant City, Tampa, Tampa International Airport, and USF Police Departments, was helping out with recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Michael. 

“It was pure devastation in some of these areas,” said Tampa Police Sgt. Kimberly Hill.

Some officers deployed on October 11, the day after Michael hit. Three Tampa PD tactical dispatchers followed on October 16, and another ten officers came later on October 18.

They worked in Panama City, Mexico Beach, Parker, and Jackson County, doing everything from answering 911 calls and dispatching crews to keeping order as residents lined up at gas pumps to delivering water to those in need.

“They tell you about losing everything,” Hill said of some of the people she met. “Losing pets, not sure what they’re going to do. It wears on you, as well, and you just try to stay positive for them.”

Hill said what surprised her the most was the way the community came together for each other and the visiting first responders.

“They were bringing us stuff, and we’re like, ‘No – we’re here for you!’” Hill said.

Now that she’s back, Hill said she’s looking forward to passing on lessons TPD might want to put into effect in case disaster ever strikes Tampa.