MANSFIELD — A local news and sports personality will be noticeably absent from the community.

James Massara, news director of Crawford County Now who is actively serving in the Ohio Air National Guard 200th RED HORSE Squadron, has been tasked to assist with earthquake relief operations in Puerto Rico.

In an article written by Capt. Paul Stennett of the 179th Airlift Wing and published on the Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS) on January 12, the squadron is deploying equipment and personnel to the US Territory of Puerto Rico in disaster relief.

In the article, Stennett wrote, “The units’ abilities and capabilities allow them to deploy anywhere in the world within 72 hours and remain self-sustaining, giving them the unique ability to provide the support needed in the areas affected by the earthquakes. The 200th RHS is sending two Disaster Relief Bed-down System’s (DRBS) to Puerto Rico. Each system will provide basic life needs such as shelter, showers, and latrines for up to 150 military personnel responding to the disaster.”

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued a proclamation authorizing specified members of the Ohio National Guard to provide emergency aid to Puerto Rico after a series of powerful earthquakes caused massive destruction and widespread power outages.

Kim Jenney, general manager with the North Central Ohio Media Group, said she is extremely proud of Massara’s service to the nation.

“James has been a stable force with the North Central Ohio Media Group for nearly three years. He has made himself available 24 hours a day to bring the latest news to our community,” Jenney said. “He will definitely be missed during his absence, but we have a great team that will work hard to fill the gap. We send our thoughts and prayers for his soon and safe return.”

In addition to being the news director for Crawford County Now, Massara is the news anchor for Country Legends 1540/107.5 WBCO and Iconic Rock Q92.7 WQEL. He also serves as host of the Saturday Night Phoneboard as well as a fill-in play-by-play sports announcer.

Operations manager Eric Faulds is Massara’s direct supervisor and works closely with him on a variety of projects.

“The whole team here is so proud of James for his service to our country and the efforts to help the people of Puerto Rico. James brings a unique passion and pursuit of excellence to everything he does. I know it will be put to good use during this relief mission,” Faulds said.

Kathy Laird, a correspondent with CCN, is also proud of Massara’s service.

“I couldn’t be more proud of James for his service to our country. The people of Puerto Rico need our support. He and his family are in my thoughts and prayers,” Laird said. “Godspeed, James! I look forward to your safe return soon.”