III Marine Expeditionary Force continues to support relief effort

OKINAWA, JAPAN

03.17.2011

Courtesy Story

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

OKINAWA, Japan - Marines stationed at Combined Arms Training Center, Camp Fuji, Japan, departed today bound for Yamagata, Japan, in support of Operation Tomodachi.

A convoy, escorted by members of the Japan Ground Self Defense Force, which includes: six 7-Ton trucks, 11 Humvees, communications trucks, and other tactical vehicles will join the III Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward) at Yamagata Airport to establish a Humanitarian Assistance Center and provide support to the relief effort.

This convoy was organized and put into motion within 48 hours of being tasked by higher headquarters. “This is a testament to our commitment to this effort and our relationship with the JGSDF,” said Lt. Col. Anthony N. Frasco, executive officer, CATC Camp Fuji.

Two KC-130J aircraft from Marine Air Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III MEF, departed from Marine Corps Air Station Futenma today. The aircraft contained pallets of meals ready to eat, cots, and other gear bound for Naval Air Station Atsugi. MCAS Futenma’s proximity to logistics and ground units on Okinawa has been critical to III MEF’s efforts to deliver aid and supplies in support of Operation Tomodachi.

Earlier today, 1st MAW delivered food, water and blankets to MCAS Iwakuni, Yokota Air Base, NAS Atsugi, and Misawa Air Base for distribution to areas requiring immediate humanitarian assistance.

Marines and sailors from III MEF are actively providing support for foreign humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations in mainland Japan. Currently, there are approximately 588 Marines, sailors, and civilians from III MEF and Marine Corps Bases Japan deployed in support of Operation Tomodachi. Marine KC-130J aircraft have flown 81 sorties to date for continued support to the foreign humanitarian assistance mission.

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• Date Taken: 03.17.2011
• Date Posted: 03.17.2011 04:08
• Story ID: 67202
• Location: OKINAWA, JP