Alabama Governor Kay Ivey on Friday authorized Adjutant General Sheryl Gordon to activate up to 100 members of the Alabama National Guard.

The move is strictly a preparedness measure, according to a release from the governor’s office.

However, the governor feels it is prudent to have the guardsmen ready in case a COVID-19 related situation arises that demands their assistance.

The governor issued the following statement alongside the authorization:

“While there is no immediate need for us to deploy our Guard, I have given authorization to Adjutant General Sheryl Gordon to be on standby, should our first responders and health care providers need additional support.

I want to ensure Alabamians that our National Guard stands ready to be part of this team effort to combat this invisible enemy.

My administration has been given clear instructions to do everything possible to ensure the continuity of government while being flexible and responsible to the needs of our state. I ask for the support of my fellow Alabamians as we work through these challenging days together.”

As of 5:45 p.m on Friday, there are 106 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the Yellowhammer State.

Henry Thornton is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can contact him by email: [email protected] or on Twitter @HenryThornton95.