Puerto Rico remains in rough condition following hurricanes, and six IT volunteers from Fort Drum are at Fort Buchanan helping to restore telecommunications on the island.

"We didn't understand what we were getting into and I'll tell you what. We had a line outside my door," said Chief of the Network Infrastructure Division Kristopher Johnson. "Put out a message to my team that there was an opportunity to help our brothers and sisters down at Fort Buchanan."

They have been there since September 25. Among their many efforts: They have restored a mobile radio system to connect first responders to the post. 

"Our two primary roles were to come down, assess the storm damage and repair any of the damage the team had," said Johnson.

They say there are complications getting resources to the area.

"I can't speak for the greater Puerto Rico recovery effort, but I can tell you here, we do have challenges getting food, fuel, water and even personnel in and around the local area," said Johnson.

Despite criticism of the federal government's response, Johnson says he is impressed.

"I've seen a massive influx of federal support, whether that is personnel or material," said Johnson. "To be honest with you, I've been absolutely floored with the amazing response of our country down here."

And for the ongoing quarrel between President Donald Trump and San Juan Mayor Carmen Cruz, the team says their work goes beyond politics. 

"Politics aside, everyone is in it. Everyone hurts and everyone suffers," said Johnson.

The team says it's made considerable progress while on the island. The volunteers plan to return home as early as next week, and when they return, they will help Fort Buchanan remotely.