Operation Tomodachi

Operation Tomodachi
DoD Official News Release. U.S. military assets continue to provide logistical support to the Japan Self-Defense Force at their request March 13 in wake of an 8.9 magnitude earthquake and a tsunami which followed after the earthquake.

With the Japan Self-Defense Force leading 'Operation Tomodachi,' U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM) provided various capabilities to include additional search-and-rescue provisions, medical services, food, shelter, command and control, fuel and other capabilities.

The USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group (CSG 7) flew several helicopter missions conducting surveys, delivering humanitarian supplies and is currently conducting the evacuation of 640 people from Takata, Japan.

Also, Japanese authorities are directing U.S. Navy personnel in at-sea search-and-rescue and recovery operations east of the Miyagi Prefecture, while providing transport to approximately 700 Japan Ground Self-Defense Force personnel to needed areas.

Yokota Air Base has provided a reception center for incoming aircraft and has received more than 10 commercial airliners diverted from the Narita International Airfield.

The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit continues to provide coordination assistance and conduct relief operations with aviation assets.

U.S. military personnel, supplies and capabilities continue to arrive as needed by the Japan Self-Defense Force. In total as of March 11, eight U.S. Navy ships, more than 15 U.S. Navy aircraft, 1400 lbs. of food , more than 8,600 lbs. of supplies, and approximately 5,300 Sailors and Marines are currently serving along with the Japan Self-Defense Force as other assets continue to arrive.