Navy Humanitarian Missions on the Rise

[unhappycamper]

Navy Humanitarian Missions on the Rise
December 04, 2008
Virginian-Pilot

The amphibious assault ship Kearsarge arrived home Dec. 2 after four months of spreading goodwill.

Its crew of more than 1,000 toured the Caribbean, visiting South and Central American countries to bring medical care, engineering expertise and humanitarian assistance.

The team included service members from various military branches, as well as civilians from non governmental organizations. They operated on patients, built and renovated schools, delivered relief to hurricane victims and more.

The Kearsarge is just one of the Norfolk-based ships that has undertaken such a mission in recent months, and these deployments signal a shift in the military's role on the world stage. As these ships arrive on distant shores, their goal is to back up U.S. talk of friendship with action.

The hope, say the ships' commanders, is that these tours will pay off for everyone.


Rest of article at: http://www.military.com/news/article/navy-humanitarian-missions-on-the-rise.html?col=1186032310810