Task Force 51, commanded by Army Maj. Gen. John King, and Task Force Response, led by Headquarters, 263d Army Air and Missile Defense Command, commanded by Army Maj. Gen. Timothy Sheriff, work as Army North’s contingency command posts.
They serve as an initial entry coordinating element, working with FEMA; state and local officials; and Dual Status Commanders to set conditions for DoD support to the COVID-19 response.  TF 51 and TF Response are prepared to deploy into the Joint Operating Area to facilitate support for emerging response requirements.

Defense Coordinating Offices/Elements

These specialized 10-person planning cells, led by a senior Army colonel (O6), are co-located with each FEMA regional headquarters and serve as the Secretary of Defense's liaison to coordinate requests from the federal government for federal military assistance.

Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officers

Army North has also activated approximately 280 Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officers. The EPLOs are specially trained and experienced military reserve component officers, who assist the Defense Coordinating Officers in each of the states and territories. Together the DCO and EPLO network ensures that U.S. Northern Command, through Army North, is able to help federal, state, local, tribal and territorial leaders understand the unique military capabilities of the Defense Department and what type of military support may be appropriate and best suited for civil assistance missions.