WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio -- The 445th Airlift Wing continues to provide support to millions affected by recent hurricanes. The 445th was the first Reserve unit to volunteer and support Hurricane Harvey relief efforts.
The wing flew its first Hurricane Harvey support mission Aug. 27 when it flew cargo to Corpus Christi, Texas.
Prior to Hurricane Irma striking Florida, the unit transported an HH-60 helicopter from Patrick Air Force Base, Florida to Dobbins Air Reserve Base in Georgia, Sept. 7 to escape the hurricane.
On Sept. 9, a Reserve C-17 from the 445th Airlift Wing transported the New York Task Force One to San Juan, Puerto Rico in support of Hurricane Irma relief efforts.
The unit transported Federal Emergency Management personnel from Indiana’s Task Force One to Puerto Rico in support of Hurricane Maria relief efforts Sept. 23.
To date, C-17s from the 445th have flown 12 missions, airlifting more than 484 passengers and 994,000 pounds of cargo around the globe to places including Texas, Florida, Georgia, New Jersey, Delaware, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Martin and Honduras.
Cargo delivered consisted of meals ready to eat, water, power equipment, forklifts, sleeping cots and other supplies in support of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria.
In addition to airlift, 12 Airmen including command post controllers, force support personnel and security forces members deployed to Florida and Georgia to help with efforts there.
“To say I’m proud of the 445th is an understatement. The men and women of the 445th have been called into action to provide support and aid to those affected by these disasters,” said Col. Adam Willis, 445th Airlift Wing commander.
“We will always answer the call. This is a true testament of how Americans help others in time of need. Our Airmen stand ready to assist as we recovery from these devastating disasters,” he added.
Aircrews are currently awaiting taskings for future missions.