Oklahoma reservists assist Japanese relief efforts

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Rich Curry
  • 507th Air Refueling Wing
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Oklahoma --  Air Force Reservists from the 72nd Aerial Port Squadron, 507th Air Refueling Wing, Tinker AFB, Oklahoma, provided assistance to Operation TOMODACHI, the earthquake and tsunami relief efforts underway in Japan today.

The reservists were beginning the second week of their two week annual tour at Hickam AFB, Hawaii when news arrived of the disaster that struck Japan.

Today, during the final day of their deployment to Hickam, the reservists were able to lend a hand by preparing several pallets of hazardous material spill kits destined for Japan. Air Force officials stated that the United States is in a supporting role to the already competent and capable JMSDF response.

Officials from Pacific Command released a statement today saying, "United States military assets are actively supporting the requests of the Government of Japan in its response to the disaster. As long time allies, U.S. and Japan forces as are extremely interoperable. U.S. Forces Japan (USFJ) is in constant contact with their Japan Self-Defense Forces counterparts as we continue to support operations to aid the people of Japan."

The reservists, who are headed back to Oklahoma on Friday, relayed they were proud to have been able to assist. "We've all watched the news and are horrified by the destruction that occurred," said Master Sgt. Joseph Melichar, an Air Transportation Craftsman and Team Chief for the 26 deployed reservists.

For more information on Air Force efforts in support of Operation TOMODACHI, visit the Air Force Link at http://www.af.mil or the Air Force Pacific Command website at http://www.pacaf.af.mil/.