SECNAV Thanks Sailors, Marines for Work in Operation Unified Assistance

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- To the Sailors and Marines supporting Operation Unified Assistance and your fellow military and civilian counterparts.

The tsunami that struck Southeast Asia Dec. 26 was a horrific tragedy. American Sailors and Marines, American warships and helicopters provided essential assistance to tsunami victims in difficult and dangerous circumstances. Your compassion, professionalism and dedicated efforts were awesome. Well done!

With more than 6,000 flight hours and more than 20 million pounds of medicine, food and water delivered to date, you saved thousands of lives and eased the suffering of thousands more. America’s sea services once again brought great resources and flexibility to bear in the noble cause of helping others.

Your fellow Americans are proud of all of you and what you accomplished. Those whom you assisted are grateful for your help, for your care and for your friendship. You showed the world American compassion and mercy. At sea, ashore, and in the air, you brought honor to yourselves and to our nation.

Thank you for your continued service to our Navy and Marine Corps, to our nation and to the world. Thanks for all you’ve achieved and for continuing to help others in the future.

For more news from around the fleet, visit www.navy.mil.