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Military community provides essential logistical support to earthquake recovery efforts
Posted 3/17/2011 Updated 3/17/2011
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by 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
3/17/2011 - MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- As rescue teams from around the world began arriving at Misawa Air Base following the devastating 9.0 magnitude earthquake, military members jumped in to action to provide the necessary logistical support for Operation Tomodachi relief actions.
Less than 24 hours after the arrival of search and rescue teams from the United Kingdom and U.S. Agency for International Development, the 35th Logistics Readiness Squadron had identified extra personnel required, prepared their vehicles and obtained travel permits required for a convoy to a relief operation site in Ofunato.
The convoy included seven tractor trailers, eight six-passenger pick-up trucks, four 44-passenger buses, and one mobile-maintenance vehicle. In all, there were more than 30 military drivers and escorts working together with the rescue teams to transport and offload the required support.
Early Monday the 20-vehicle convoy moved out for their appointment with history.
"As we drove through Misawa heading out towards the expressway, Japanese citizens clapped, bowed and a few even cried in appreciation of our effort to support the residents of Japan and the Sendai-Fukishima area in particular," said Master Sgt. Jason Fosco, 35th LRS temporary first sergeant.
The convoy began with a police escort provided by the city of Misawa. After a few hours of travelling, the convoy pulled in to a rest stop where the military members and relief workers found even more support and gratitude from the local community.
"We were surprised to find the store owners offering us free food and drinks," said Sergeant Fosco.
The ride wasn't all pleasant surprises though. Along the way the team had to overcome many obstacles in order to reach their destination.
"On one occasion, the road was too narrow to move the convoy around a corner," said Sergeant Fosco. "The team would not let that stop them."
A mobile maintenance team in the convoy was able to remove a guardrail and allow the tractor trailers to round the bend. With the convoy cleared, and traffic directed, the team reinstalled the guardrail and continued on their way.
"From the time we departed Misawa, the convoy operation to deliver the U.K. and USAID personnel and equipment was nothing less than outstanding," said Sergeant Fosco. "Without a doubt, this was one of the most rewarding missions I have ever had the privilege of being involved in."
Logistical support did not end when the U.K. and USAID rescue teams arrived in the Sendai-Fukishima area.
The following morning, Japan Ground Self Defense Force CH-47J Chinook helicopters flew in more cargo and rescue personnel. The 35th LRS and U.S. Army soldiers from the Joint Tactical Ground Station at Misawa also put together a second convoy on Tuesday to resupply the rescue teams.
"The teams were unable to procure kerosene in the local area and requested resupply to run their portable generators," said Maj. Andrew Pate, 35th LRS commander. "Additionally, we prepped and took a full 500-gallon water buffalo to them in order to overcome water limitations."
With more relief supplies and rescue workers coming in and require support, Misawa Air Base will continue to serve as a hub in support of Operation Tomodachi.
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| Jonathan Teruel, Philippines |
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| Peace, U.S.A. |
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| Vicki Smith, King Hill ID USA |
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