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Davis-Monthan Airmen supports Haiti

A C-130 Hercules from the 79th Rescue Squadron sits on the runway Jan. 14, 2010, at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz. Another C-130 from the squadron participated in a Haitian relief mission during the evening of Jan. 13 in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. During this mission, Airmen delivered more than 13,000 pounds of cargo. They also dropped off airfield operations personnel to help set up the airfield in Port-au-Prince and control the relief traffic in and out of the airfield. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Valerie Smith)

Davis-Monthan Airmen support Haiti

Published Jan. 17, 2010
By Capt. Stacie N. Shafran
355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- Members of the 79th Rescue Squadron based at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base participated in a Haitian relief mission during the evening of Jan. 13 in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

During this mission, Airmen on a C-130 Hercules delivered more than 13,000 pounds of cargo that include vehicles and equipment.

The Airmen also dropped off airfield operations personnel to help set up the airfield in Port-au-Prince and control the relief traffic in and out of the airfield.

"It felt great to be part of this mission to help the people of Haiti by setting up the main airfield to receive relief supplies," said Capt. Tim Saxton, the C-130 aircraft commander.

The 79th Rescue Squadron was at Pope AFB, N.C., conducting training when they were asked to transport cargo and personnel into Haiti. They were in the air with the cargo within five hours of the request.

"Our aircraft, personnel and equipment are currently standing by, ready to offer further support as needed," Lt. Col. Michael Hinsch, 79th Rescue Squadron director of operations.