Adam Smith: “today in the United States House of Representatives, we commend the men and women of our Armed Forces and civilian…”

“today in the United States House of Representatives, we commend the men and women of our Armed Forces and civilian employees of the Department of State and the United States Agency for International Development for their services and actions in response to the earthquake and tsunami of December 26, 2004. In particular, I would like to recognize the active-duty and reserve servicemembers of the 62nd and 446th Airlift Wings stationed in my District at McChord Air Force Base. The Airmen who deployed filled many different roles from aircrew members to maintainers and aerial port personnel and security forces. McChord's aircrews flew badly needed supplies to countries throughout the region. The C-17's unique ability to land in the most austere conditions allowed it to deliver aid where other aircraft couldn't. In particular, I would like to commend Colonel Wayne Schatz, the 62nd Airlift Wing commander, who deployed to Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, and became the Deputy Director of Mobility Forces for the entire operation. While there, he helped marshall the massive humanitarian airlift mission, directing hundreds of aircraft that delivered nearly 3,000 tons of relief supplies to countries most in need of aid. All told, Team McChord's contributions to the relief efforts included: 1.8 million pounds of relief supplies delivered; 660+ passengers moved; and 48 relief missions flown.”