American carrier battle group to help in 'Yolanda' relief efforts

From the Philippine News Agency (Nov 12): American carrier battle group to help in 'Yolanda' relief efforts
 
An American carrier battle group consisting of the nuclear-powered carrier, USS George Washington (CVN-73), and her escorts, are now enroute to the Philippines to help in the ongoing relief and rescue works in the Visayas Regions which was badly battered by Supertyphoon "Yolanda" last Friday.

The US Embassy in Manila, which forwarded a statement from the Pentagon, said that the deployment was made on the orders of US Department of Defense Chuck Hagel.

The USS George Washington and her group was ordered to "make their best speed" to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster support to the Philippines.

The carrier is escorted by the "Ticonderoga" guided-missile cruisers USS Antietam (CG-54) and USS Cowpens (CG-63), and the destroyer USS Mustin (DDG-89).

The supply ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE-10) is already underway and will rendezvous with the group en route to the Philippines.

While the destroyer USS Lassen (DDG-82) is also underway Monday and now headed for the Philippines.

Grim reports on the impact of the super typhoon that left thousands killed and millions of people in need of assistance triggered an outpouring of support from the international community, including the US.

The USS George Washington is crewed by 5,000 sailors and equipped with more than 80 jet aircraft and helicopters.

The ship is currently in Hong Kong for a port visit.

Crew members were recalled early from shore leave for deployment to the Philippines.

Carrier Air Wing Five (CVW-5), embarked on board the USS George Washington, includes an array of aircraft designed to perform various functions including disaster relief.

Among its assets are the "Golden Falcons" of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 12 flying the MH-60S Seahawk; and the "Saberhawks" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 77 flying the MH-60R Seahawk.

As needed, these ships and aircraft will be able to provide humanitarian assistance, supplies, and medical care in support of the ongoing efforts led by the government and military of the Republic of the Philippines, said the Pentagon.

The ships should be on station within 48-72 hours.

The Pentagon is continuing to work closely with the Philippine government to determine what, if any, additional assets may be required.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=&sid=&nid=&rid=585945