Civil Defense in the United States has a history dating back to the first world wars. Whether it was preparing to repel an enemy invasion, searching for enemy submarines, preparing nuclear fallout shelters, or helping communities after a natural disaster, American Citizens (like members of Light Foot) have been helping defend their fellow citizens against both enemy attacks and natural disasters since the early 20th Century. Members of Light Foot continue to honor that tradition and continue to help and protect their fellow Americans.
For a complete history, you can read Civil Defense and Homeland Security: A Short History of National Preparedness Efforts