Humanitarian aid for Georgia leaves Ramstein AB

International press photograph the first of 16 pallets containing $1 million in U.S. donated life support equipment and medical supplies donated to the republic of Georgia. The delivery was a joint-service effort between U.S Army Europe Soldiers and Airmen representing Air Mobility Command. Photo: Master Sgt. Scott Wagers

The airlift begins...

KAISERSLAUTERN, Germany - The 21st Theater Sustainment Command and the U.S. Air Force - Europe began providing emergency humanitarian assistance Aug. 12, 2008 for the people of Georgia in response to the crisis situation.

Soldiers from the 66th Transportation Company and the 39th Transportation Battalion, and airmen from the 723rd Air Mobility Squadron worked 36 straight hours to palletize over 75,000 pounds of emergency shelter items and medical supplies which include tents, blankets, bedding, hygiene items, clothing, beds, cots, and medical supplies in order to support this mission to the Georgian people.

"Due to the real world situation on the ground in Georgia, European Command, United States Army Europe, United States Air Force Europe and 21st TSC expeditiously planned and executed the initial humanitarian supply flight within 24 hours of the cease fire agreement to help bring relief to the Georgian people," said Lt. Col. Robert Curran commander of the 39th Transportation Battalion.

The humanitarian aid supplies were provided from State Department stock at the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Center - Europe's Humanitarian Assistance Program Warehouse in Pirmasens, Germany.

The first C-17 Globemaster departed Ramstein AB here in Germany and landed at Tbilisi International Airport yesterday, delivering $1 million in humanitarian aid.