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Airmen and members of the U.S. Agency for International Develop-ment and the Los Angeles County Search and Rescue team, offload relief supplies for victims of the earth-
quake in Katmandu, Nepal, April 28. The Air Force, members of the USAID, the Los Angeles County Search and Rescue team and five search and rescue dogs, transported relief supplies to provide assistance to the men and women in Nepal.
WASHINGTON — The Air Force continues its support of the disaster relief operations in Nepal with the arrival of a second C-17 Globemaster III, in response to an earthquake that rocked the country April 25.
“One of the U.S. Air Force’s great strengths is our ability to provide rapid global mobility in support of humanitarian efforts around the world, and we are proud to be able to contribute our strengths to this recovery effort,” said Gen. Darren McDew, Air Mobility Command commander.
The 7.9-magnitude earthquake has reportedly left more than 4,000 dead and thousands more still missing. In addition, thousands of people are currently reported to be without food, water or shelter.
“Whenever and wherever our Air Force is needed, Airmen are ready to answer the call,” said Deborah Lee James, secretary of the Air Force. “Our Airmen are proud to deliver critical humanitarian relief and comfort to others during a time of need.”
The first Air Force C-17 delivered 70 personnel, including a U.S. Agency for International Development Disaster Assistance Response Team, the Fairfax County Urban Search and Rescue team, and several journalists, along with 45 square tons of cargo. The second aircraft, carrying approximately 50 passengers, included a Los Angeles urban search and rescue team, working dogs and additional relief supplies.
“With humanitarian re-lief operations, there is always a tremendous spirit of cooperation and support,” said Gen. Mark A. Welsh III, chief of staff of the Air Force. “The Air Force is able to use its global reach and partner with other agencies to deliver timely assistance. Our Airmen continue to make me proud.”
Prior to the earthquake, 26 Department of Defense personnel and one U.S. C-130 Hercules, were already in Nepal to conduct a previously scheduled training exercise. All DOD personnel in Nepal are accounted for. A DOD team is helping the Nepalese army at Ratna Park set up tents for those displaced by earthquake damage, as well as using their medical training and working with the Nepalese army to assess and treat the wounded.
