CENTENNIAL, Colo., - A Colorado Army National Guard aircrew will assist in disaster relief efforts in Haiti by using a Fairchild C-26E to ferry personnel, medical supplies, and equipment between Homestead Air Force Base, Fla., and the Port-au-Prince International Airport in Haiti.
The aircrew of Colorado Citizen-Soldiers includes three personnel assigned to U.S. Southern Command, which commands U.S. forces for the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief mission called Operation Unified Response.
"Our hearts go out to the Haitian people and all those affected by this devastating earthquake," said Maj. Gen H. Michael Edwards, the adjutant general of Colorado. "The Soldiers and Airmen of the Colorado National Guard are always ready, always there to assist civil authorities with specialized capabilities that save lives."
The Fairchild C-26E is a twin turbo prop fixed wing aircraft. It has an airlift capacity of 21,000 pounds and can accommodate up to 12 passengers and cargo.
The aircrew will participate in relief operations during the next 15 days with the possibility of being extended.
"Our Soldiers are fully prepared to bring rapid relief and assistance to reduce the suffering of the Haitian people," said Colorado Army National Guard Directorate of Aviation and Safety, Col. Joel Best. "The Colorado National Guard will continue to prove its value and proud heritage of service to community, state and nation."
The Colorado National Guard celebrated its 150th year of service to community, state, and nation Jan. 23, 2010.