Yokota Airmen aiding Japan during times of disaster

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Veronica Pierce
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  Airmen from the 374th Airlift Wing flew J. Thomas Schieffer, U.S. Ambassador to Japan and Lt. Gen. Bruce Wright, U.S. Forces Japan commander, to Niigata Prefecture on July 18, for the delivery of supplies to victims of an earthquake which shook the northwest side of Japan July 16.

The C-130 Hercules assigned to the 36th Airlift Squadron departed here at around 4 p.m. with 10,000 pounds of water and 100 air conditioning units for the victims being housed in public facilities.

The leadership met with Yuriko Koike, Japan's Minister of Defense; Hirohiko Izumida, Governor of Niigata; and Niigata City Mayor Akira Shinoda upon delivery of the supplies.

Ambassador Schieffer said this mission was a chance for the U.S. to repay Japan for their involvement with assisting the U.S. during Hurricane Katrina.

"We stand ready to help in any way that is needed," he said. "America wants to be here to help and this is a small gesture to say thank you and to show how grateful we are for helping us in our time of need."

The 374 AW Airmen were ready for the movement and enthusiastic about being offered the opportunity to provide assistance to the Niigata Prefecture. 

"I think it is great that the 374 AW is able to provide relief and aid to the country of Japan during their time of crisis," said Capt. Brian Wester, 374th Operational Support Squadron mission aircraft commander. "I was very happy to be part of the crew contributing to efforts which will strengthen our relations with the Japanese people."

Members of the Japan Air Self Defense Force also greeted and assisted 36 AS Airmen with the unloading of palettes at Niigata Airport.

"It was an immense feeling being able to help our host country in their time of need," said Staff Sgt. Jesse Reeson, 36 AS flight engineer. "The ability to work along side JASDF on this mission was a great experience and seeing their appreciation was very humbling."