Japanese delegation thanks Team Dover for tsunami relief efforts

Published March 21, 2012
By Airman 1st Class Samuel Taylor
436th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. -- Approximately one year ago, inside the homes, schools and businesses of Japan's Miyagi Prefecture, the walls and furniture began to shake. A few hours later, more than 15,000 residents were left dead, more than 250,000 buildings lay in ruin, and three nuclear reactors spewed forth radiation into the atmosphere after the island nation suffered a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and major tsunami.

Immediately thereafter, the Department of Defense called on Dover AFB to send more than 70,000 pounds of humanitarian relief supplies and a search and rescue team to the areas worst affected by the disaster in support of Operation Tomodachi.

On March 20, 2012, approximately 60 students and chaperons from the Japanese Delegation of Miyagi Prefecture visited their sister city of Dover, Del., to express their gratitude to the men and women who came to their aid. This year's tour marked the 15th anniversary of the visits, during which the student stay with American host families, further strengthening a bond that spans language barriers and borders.

The day began with a presentation that detailed the logistics of Operation Tomodachi and included Airmen who directly participated in the relief efforts. Among those who spoke to the Japanese students, who were garbed in matching, color-coded school uniforms, was Lt. Col. Halsey Burks, director of operations with the 3rd Airlift Squadron, who oversaw much of Dover AFB's involvement in the relief efforts.

Fighting back tears, Burks said, "[the earthquake and tsunami] were terrible events; we were honored to help our friends in the Pacific."

Miki Smith, a lead coordinator of the annual visits, echoed his remarks.

"It was a time of panic and fear when the tsunami hit; everyone was so appreciative when relief supplies started arriving," said Smith. "If there is one thing I want these students to remember following this visit, it is this: it is the American way to help one another."

The group went on to tour the 436th Aerial Port Squadron and a C-17 Globemaster III to see first-hand the origin of the relief supplies delivered to their home, then finished the tour with a trip to the Patterson Dining Facility, where many sampled a staple American dish - bacon burgers. According to service members participating in the tour, the smiles of the Japanese students was ample reward for their efforts a year ago.

"Seeing these young people smile so freely after living through such a challenging time is heartwarming," Maj. Sean Kelley, C-5 Galaxy pilot with the 709th Airlift Squadron. "I'm honored to have been able to help these proud, resilient people."