CAUAYAN PROVINCE, Republic of the Philippines -- Marines and sailors of the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade provided assessments and initial recovery assistance to victims of Typhoon Juan (international name, Megi) here Oct. 21.
The 3rd MEB, comprised of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, Combat Logistics Regiment 35 and Marine Aircraft Group 36, was participating in Amphibious Landing Exercise 2011, a bilateral training exercise and security assistance program between the U.S. military and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
When the typhoon hit Oct. 18, the Marines suspended the exercise to wait for the storm to pass. Soon after, 3rd MEB was called upon at the request of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines for air support.
According to the Philippine National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the storm left 26 dead and 39 injured.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with all the Filipinos at this difficult time," said Col. Andrew MacMannis, commanding officer, 31st MEU. "We are here to assist those in need however we can."
The U.S. Embassy in Manila said in an Oct. 19 news release that the U.S. Government has provided an initial $100,000 in immediate relief assistance to aid victims of Typhoon Juan.
"The money was given to the Philippine Red Cross and used for transportation, tarpaulins and other non-food items," said Alan Dwyer, principal regional advisor for USAID office and regional disaster assistance.
KC-130 Hercules from MAG-36 helped ferry those supplies from a central distribution point in Manila to Cauayan Airfield in the northern part of Luzon.
"This morning, our goal was to bring 60,000 pounds of food, medical supplies and shelters to Cauayan Airport for further distribution," said Capt. David Masche, KC-130 pilot, Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 152, MAG-36.
Once at Cauayan, the supplies were loaded by soldiers from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and members of the Philippine National Police onto CH-46 Sea Knights and CH-53E Sea Stallions.
"Everyone brings something to the table, so getting all those pieces together is vital to the mission," said Masche.
"I wish the storm had never hit or had been as devastating," said Maj. Cory Dekraai, aircraft maintenance officer, Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265, MAG-36. "Knowing that our helicopters are here and ready makes me proud to know we can answer their call."