US Military Families Arrive In Seattle From Japan
By DoD News
More than 120 family members arrived at Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEATAC) March 21, from Japan.
Sailors, Marines and civilians throughout Navy Region Northwest are working with their Army and Air Force counterparts along with other agencies, including SEATAC, Port of Seattle, Transportation Security Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and volunteers from the United Services Organization (USO) and American Red Cross to provide assistance to the incoming family members.
“We welcome you to Washington State after what we know has been an arduous journey,” said Commander, Navy Region Northwest Rear Adm. Douglass Biesel. “Our thoughts and prayers have been with you, your loved ones and the Japanese people during this past week. We are thankful for your safe arrival. While Navy forces overseas continue to help the nation of Japan recover from these recent disasters, we in the Northwest are here to help and support you during this difficult time.”
More than 100 military and civilian personnel are on site aiding the families. Navy Region Northwest’s Manpower department is providing Navy Family Accounting and Assessment System updates.
The Fleet and Family Support Center is providing assistance with lodging, relocation, child care, new parent support, phone contact information and interpretation services. The Navy and Marine Corps Relief Society is available to provide emergency financial assistance as needed.
Additional support offered includes emergency management, information systems, counseling, chaplain services, child services, travel and legal support, ombudsmen, medical and exceptional family member assistance.
Two DoD-chartered flights carrying more than 350 passengers have arrived at SEATAC to date. The first flight arrived March 19, bringing more than 230 family members. The second flight arrived today. Presently, an estimated 6,800 family members are expected to arrive at SEATAC as part of Operation Tomodachi on 20 separate flights.
