2 US amphibious ships help in 'Yolanda' relief effort in the Visayas

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 22): 2 US amphibious ships help in 'Yolanda' relief effort in the Visayas

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Joint Task Force (JTF) 505 on Friday welcomed the arrival of amphibious ships USS Ashland (LSD-48) and USS Germantown (LSD-42) in the Visayas Region.

The two US vessels are now helping in the ongoing relief efforts for victims of super typhoon "Yolanda".

The USS Ashland and USS Germantown have aboard a combined total of approximately 900 Marines, elements of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, based in Okinawa, Japan.

"Having amphibious ships here, along with the 31st MEU, brings more logistical capability and capacity to augment our on-going relief operations in Visayas," AFP vice-chief- of staff Lt. Gen. Alan R. Luga.

The USS Ashland and the Germantown, both dock landing ships, replaced the USS George Washington which had been operating in the area since Nov. 14.

"We are very thankful to the United States Armed Forces for sending one of their aircraft carriers to the Philippines and immediately supporting our humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations following the devastation of super typhoon Yolanda," Luga said.

Luga added that the USS George Washington played an important role in air transport when most airports are non-operational in critical areas in Eastern Visayas and the amphibious ships have a more robust ship-to-shore movement ability.

The USS Ashland and the USS Germantown carry landing craft, both air cushioned and utility, for moving large amounts of cargo and equipment ashore, and the 31st MEU brings heavy equipment which could be used to move debris.

"In addition to the enhanced capabilities of the Ashland and Germantown the Japanese Navy will be surveying the Eastern Coast of Samar and identifying additional impacted areas for relief support," JTF 505 commander US Marine Lt. Gen. John Wissler said.

"These are more suitable assets, and combined with the naval vessels from Japan, Australia, and other nations, we continue to be postured to help wherever the Philippine Government and the Armed Forces of the Philippines needs us and we will remain here until our unique capabilities are no longer necessary," Wissler said.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=589626