Japanese Earthquake and the U.S. Response: Operation Tomodachi

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110315-N-2653B-153 OFUNATO, Japan (March 15, 2011) A Mickey Mouse doll lies among debris in Ofunato following a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Matthew M. Bradley/Released)

110312-F-MG591-054 JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. (March 12, 2011) Airmen assigned to the 89th Aerial Port Squadron load pallets onto a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft. Airmen loaded 14 pallets of technical search and rescue equipment for more than 80 Fairfax County (Va.) urban search and rescue personnel to provide assistance in the rescue effort after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and tsunami struck Japan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Perry Aston/Released)

110315-N-9930Q-025 PACIFIC OCEAN (March 15, 2011) Sailors assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 43 load cases of bottled water on an SH-60 Sea Hawk helicopter aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Preble (DDG 88). Preble is off the coast of Japan providing assistance to survivors of a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi. (U.S. Navy photo by Logistics Specialist 3rd Class Guisela Quezadatello/Released)

110315-N-2653B-148 OFUNATO, Japan (March 15, 2011) A tug boat is among debris in Ofunato, Japan, following a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Matthew M. Bradley/Released)

110315-N-2653B-192 OFUNATO, Japan (March 15, 2011) Members of Virginia Task Force 1 from the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department search for survivors in Ofunato, Japan, following a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. Teams from the United States, United Kingdom and China are assisting in the search for missing residents. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Matthew M. Bradley/Released)

110315-N-2653B-118 OFUNATO, Japan (March 15, 2011) A fishing boat is among debris in Ofunato, Japan, following a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Matthew M. Bradley/Released)

110315-N-2653B-138 OFUNATO, Japan (March 15, 2011) A mother and daughter look at a family photo amid the wreckage of their home. A 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami struck Ofunato, Japan, destroying the city. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Matthew M. Bradley/Released)

110315-N-MU720-062 MISAWA, Japan (March 15, 2011) Mineman Seaman Jerad Clymer, from Houston, assigned to Naval Air Facility Misawa, removes debris from a park at the Misawa Fishing Port. More than 120 Sailors and Airmen from Naval Air Facility Misawa are assisting Misawa City workers and members of the community in relief efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Devon Dow/Released)
This last picture...don't japanese hang a blue fish on the door when it's a baby boy? What happened to them?

USAID Urban Search and Rescue Teams Arrive and Begin Searching

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2011
Public Information: 202-712-4810

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the earthquake and tsunami in Japan, the U.S. Government through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has deployed a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) that includes disaster response experts, nuclear experts, as well as urban search and rescue (USAR) teams from Fairfax County and the Los Angeles County Fire Departments. The USAR teams arrived at Misawa Air Base, Japan on Sunday and included 144 personnel, 12 canines trained to detect live victims and 45 tons of equipment.

The USAID DART is working to manage the overall U.S. Government response effort in Japan in coordination with the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo. The USAR teams have established a Base of Operations (BoO) and are sending out initial reconnaissance teams to priority locations as identified by the local authorities - the Ofunato area in Iwate prefecture - at first light this morning.

In addition, the USAID DART also includes four members with nuclear expertise from the U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). These four team members are currently in Tokyo discussing with their counterparts ways the U.S. might be able to assist Japan if needed.

For individuals and businesses who wish to help those in Japan, we encourage making a cash donation to a reputable organization working in the affected area. Nothing will get there faster or help more at this time.

For more information about USAID's emergency humanitarian assistance programs, please visit: www.usaid.gov.

 

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110315-N-5503T-307 WAKUYA, Japan (March 15, 2011) An aerial view of damage to Wakuya, Japan after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami devastated the area in northern Japan. Ships and aircraft from the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group are conducting search and rescue operations and re-supply missions as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi throughout northern Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexander Tidd/Released)

110315-N-5503T-577 PACIFIC OCEAN (March 15, 2011) HH-60H Sea Hawk helicopters from the Black Knights of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4 prepare to lift off after resupplying on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ships and aircraft from the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group are conducting search and rescue operations and resupply missions throughout northern Japan. Ronald Reagan is underway off the coast of Japan to provide humanitarian assistance as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexander Tidd/Released)

110315-N-GL340-059 PACIFIC OCEAN (March 15, 2011) An HH-60H Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Black Knights of Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4 prepares to land aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) to take on humanitarian supplies. Ships and aircraft from the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group are conducting search and rescue operations and re-supply missions as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi throughout northern Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Michael Feddersen/Released)

110315-N-GL340-170 PACIFIC OCEAN (March 15, 2011) Sailors move food and water onto an HH-60H Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Black Knights of Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). Ronald Reagan is off the coast of Japan providing humanitarian assistance to Japan as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Michael Feddersen/Released)

110315-N-IC111-064 NORTHERN JAPAN (March 15, 2011) Chief Naval Air Crewman Steven Sinclair looks out from an HH-60H Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Black Knights of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4 embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). HS-4 is delivering humanitarian supplies to areas affected by a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. Ships and aircraft from the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group are conducting search and rescue operations and re-supply missions as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi throughout northern Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin B. Gray/Released)

110315-N-IC111-435 NORTHERN JAPAN (March 15, 2011) Lt. Chad Upright, an HH-60H Sea Hawk helicopter pilot assigned to Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS 4) embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), speaks with a Japanese citizen during tsunami relief efforts. HS-4 is delivering humanitarian supplies to areas affected by a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. Ships and aircraft from the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group are conducting search and rescue operations and re-supply missions as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi throughout northern Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin B. Gray/Released)

110315-N-IC111-430 NORTHERN JAPAN (March 15, 2011) Japanese citizens receive supplies from Sailors assigned to the Black Knights of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4 embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). HS-4 is delivering humanitarian supplies to areas affected by a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. Ships and aircraft from the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group are conducting search and rescue operations and re-supply missions as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi throughout northern Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin B. Gray/Released)

110315-N-IC111-461 WAKUYA, Japan (March 15, 2011) Chief Naval Air Crewman Steven Sinclair, assigned to the Black Knights of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4 embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), is embraced by a Japanese citizen after delivering humanitarian supplies. Ships and aircraft from the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group are conducting search and rescue operations and re-supply missions as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi throughout northern Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kevin B. Gray/Released)


CTF 76 Heads Maritime Response Cell Supporting Earthquake, Tsunami Relief
Story Number: NNS110315-04 Release Date: 3/15/2011 5:23:00 AM

From Task Force 76 Public Affairs

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (NNS) -- In response to the earthquake and tsunami disasters in Northern Honshu, Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, Vice Adm. Scott Van Buskirk, directed Commander, Task Force (CTF) 76 to organize a Maritime Response cell on March 11, to coordinate U.S. Naval relief efforts out of U.S. Forces Japan (USFJ) headquarters on Yokota Air Base.

As the amphibious force for 7th Fleet, CTF 76, commanded by Rear Adm. Richard Landolt, is designated as the Humanitarian and Disaster relief executive agent for earthquake and tsunami response in Japan.

"Seventh Fleet's amphibious forces have a lot of experience with humanitarian and disaster relief," said Landolt. "So it makes sense to use that experience to shape our response and help our ally and regional partner recover from this catastrophic event."

In order to centralize command and control efforts for surveying affected areas, logistic support, troop and equipment transfer, and helicopter operations, representatives from CTF 76, CTF 70, CTF 72, CTF 73, and CTF 74 formed a Maritime Response cell to advise USFJ, and carry out the combined efforts of the Navy's air, ground, and sea assets. This also allows for more effective coordination with our Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) counterparts, to ensure that the right assets are employed to affect a prompt and appropriate response.

U.S. 7th Fleet forces are assisting in search and rescue operations, surveying at-sea debris fields, and will soon assist the JMSDF with transporting vehicles, equipment, and supplies to support relief efforts.

For more news from Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/c7f/.

 

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[video]http://www.navy.mil/media/wm.nmc.global/110316_1.wmv[/video]

 

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what did russia did in help she is saying the world that she is world 2nd most powerfull country

 

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10313-F-NW653-528 Debris and water cover most of Sendai Airport, Japan, March 13, 2011, after the 8.9-magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami that struck the region. The small dots covering the runway are vehicles left there after the tsunami water receded. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Samuel Morse)

110315-F-BW907-107 3/16/2011 - A C-17 Globemaster III comes in for a landing March 15, 2011, at Misawa Air Base, Japan. Airmen from the 35th Logistics Readiness Squadron stand by with forklifts and other cargo-handling equipment to off-load humanitarian relief supplies. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Marie Brown)

110315-N-5503T-311 WAKUYA, Japan (March 15, 2011) An aerial view of damage to Wakuya, Japan after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami devastated the area in northern Japan. Ships and aircraft from the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group are conducting search and rescue operations and re-supply missions as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi throughout northern Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexander Tidd/Released)
Look at the center of the picture, that is a 130-foot (40m) yacht perched on top of a two-story building!

110316-N-SB672-148 KURO-SOKI, JAPAN (March 16, 2011) Japanese citizens unload food and water from an HH-60H Sea Hawk helicopter assigned to the Black Knights of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron (HS) 4 during a humanitarian assistance mission. HS-4 is embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), off the coast of Japan providing humanitarian assistance as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dylan McCord/Released)

110315-N-5503T-282 WAKUYA, Japan (March 15, 2011) An aerial view of damage to Wakuya, Japan after a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami devastated the area in northern Japan. Ships and aircraft from the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group are conducting search and rescue operations and re-supply missions as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi throughout northern Japan. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Alexander Tidd/Released)

110316-N-SB672-098 KURO-SOKI, JAPAN (March 16, 2011) Naval Air Crewman Chris Tautkus, from Simi Valley, Calif., assigned to the Black Knights of Helicopter Anti-Submarine (HS) 4 embarked aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), uses a translation card to ask a Japanese man what additional supplies and assistance is needed in his area. Ronald Reagan is off the coast of Japan providing humanitarian assistance to Japan as directed in support of Operation Tomodachi. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dylan McCord/Released)

110315-N-3185H-405 PACIFIC OCEAN (March 15, 2011) The Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Pecos (T-AO 197) pulls alongside the U.S. 7th Fleet command ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) to conduct a replenishment at sea. Blue Ridge is en route to Japan to support earthquake and tsunami relief efforts as part of Operation Tomodachi. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Cale Hatch/Released)


Ships, Aircraft Support Japan Relief Effort

By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 16, 2011 – Fourteen U.S. Navy ships and their aircraft and 17,000 sailors and Marines are now involved in the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts in Japan, a Defense Department spokesman said here today.

Marine Corps Col. Dave Lapan said the military effort has included 113 helicopter sorties and 125 fixed-wing sorties, moving people and supplies, helping in search and rescue efforts, and delivering 129,000 gallons of water and 4,200 pounds of food.

The USS Tortuga, with heavy-lift MH-53 helicopters aboard, has completed loading 273 Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force troops, 93 vehicles and equipment for delivery tomorrow in Onimato, he said.

The USS Blue Ridge, the command ship for Navy Vice Adm. Scott R. Van Buskirk, commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet, is scheduled to arrive tomorrow and is expected to remain in the area, Lapan said.

The USS Essex, USS Harpers Ferry and the USS Germantown -- with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit aboard -- “will remain on the western side [of Honshu] rather than transit around to the east because of the at-sea debris field and the radiation hazard,” he added.

The hazard was created by tsunami damage to reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant. Some Navy airmen and sailors participating in relief missions off the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan were exposed in the past few days to low-level radiation, and 17 crew members underwent decontamination procedures, Lapan said.

The Reagan and its escort ships have moved north, but remain in the vicinity, he said.

The 2,200-member expeditionary unit, Lapan said, will move to Sendai to help in cleaning up the military airport there.

The United States also has delivered two fire trucks from military bases for use by the Japanese, who have since requested more hoses and pumps.

The USNS Safeguard delivered high-pressure water pumps to Yokota Air Base for transfer to the Japanese government for use at the Fukushima power plant, 7th Fleet officials said, and four more pumps were delivered from Sasebo this afternoon.

Air Force C-17s and C-130s delivered 19 generators to Misawa Air Base for the base’s power system and resupply pallets to Yokota Air Base. U.S. Pacific Command officials said both bases are recovering from the earthquake and tsunami and are supporting relief efforts in their regions.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Japan District provided an administration system to help the U.S. Army Japan disaster assessment team with debris-removal efforts. The corps is working on a plan to clear debris from airfields critical to logistics and humanitarian missions, and is helping U.S. Army Japan to deliver 50,000 water bottles to disaster survivors.

Related Sites:
U.S. 7th Fleet
Japan Web Special

 

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Date Mon, 14 Mar 2011 13:15:28 -0400

>U.S. Churches reach out to Japan

New York, March 14, 2011 -- As news from earthquake-stricken Japan and Tsunami-devastated coastal areas worsens, U.S. churches and religious groups are pulling out all the stops to assess how they can help.

Church World Service and National Council of Churches member communions responded within minutes after the 8.9 magnitude earthquake struck Japan on March 11.

"The damage and loss of life is almost impossible to comprehend," said the Rev. Dr. Michael Kinnamon, NCC general secretary. "It's natural to feel helpless in situations as overwhelming as this. But prayer is an important first step -- prayer that asks God to be with the families of the dead, the injured, the homeless, and the responders at every level."

But Kinnamon said it is also crucial for persons of faith to provide financial support to Church World Service and other relief organizations that are providing food, water, shelter and comfort on the ground in Japan and other stricken areas.

"Spiritual support and healing ministry will be required long after the initial impact of the disaster," Kinnamon said, citing Haiti as another venue
where U.S. churches will have a role for many years to come. "Along with everything else, we pray for the faith and patience to remain committed for as long as it takes."

Church World Service said its emergency response staff are monitoring the unfolding situation around the Pacific Rim, where CWS has programs. The CWS Bangkok office is following the situation in Japan and across the region, while in Hawaii, where tsunami waves reached the islands, CWS's domestic team is monitoring that situation, working with local contacts in Hawaii.

In Indonesia, where Church World Service has extensive operations, a tsunami of about 10 centimeters was detected in the North Sulawesi and Maluku islands. CWS Indonesia staff report they are staying in contact with two of the agency's local partners in North Sulawesi who say that communities who have been under tsunami alerts were advised to take precautionary measures and many people have done so. Wave heights of up to 8 feet had been expected in some of those areas. Further reports, assessments and emergency response as needed
will be issued as the situation unfolds. Information about how to help can be found at Church World Service : Home.

Several NCC and CWS member communions announced responses over the weekend.

American Baptist Churches USA announced a $20,000 grant from One Great Hour of Sharing (OGHS), to be sent to its mission partner, the Japan Baptist Union, for relief efforts. See American Baptist Churches > Home for developments.

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) said it was closely watching the situation along the U.S. Pacific Coast and around the Pacific Rim and will respond to needs through its Week of Compassion. See Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) for developments.

Writing on behalf of the combined world mission of the United Church of Christ and Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Global Ministries co-executive directors told mission partners in Japan that the churches "will continue praying for you and seek ways to accompany you in the path that lies ahead." See The United Church of Christ | No Matter Who You Are Or Where You Are On Life's Journey, You're Welcome Here for developments.

The letter to the Rev. Aobora Taemae, general secretary of the United Church of Christ in Japan, was sent by the Rev. David Vargas, president of the Division of Overseas Ministries in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and the Rev. Cally Rogers-Witte, executive minister of the UCC's Wider Church Ministries. Following the devastating 8.9-magnitude earthquake and resultant tsunami, Global Ministries staff have been actively attempting to make contact with mission personnel in Japan.

The Church of the Brethren's Mission and Ministry Board was meeting in Elgin, Ill. when word of the earthquake and tsunami came. The Board immediately issued a call to prayer and announced that Brethren Disaster Ministries has begun planning to support Church World Service (CWS) and its partners in relief efforts in Japan. See www.brethren.org for developments.

The Brethren board called on its members to join in the following prayer: Merciful Lord, in their hour of anguish, hear and answer the cries of the Japanese people. Hear our prayers as our tears exclaim our compassion for all people who suffer. May your love, grace, and compassion bring a sense of comfort for those who mourn. Be with the many who work to bring relief, food, water, and shelter to those in need. And gracious God especially touch those mourning the loss of loved ones.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, though the mountains shake in the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble with its tumult.... The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge" (Psalm 46:1-3, 11).

Anglican Communion churches and agencies said they are planning how best to respond to the earthquake. An Episcopal priest in Kailua on the east cost of Oahu, the Rev. Kate Lewis, told ENS via e-mail that warning sirens began sounding at 10 p.m. local time. She had not heard of any damage to Episcopal churches, some of which are very close to beaches. See www.ecusa.anglican.org for developments.

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America said it has 22 missionaries serving in Japan, working in partnership with the Japan Evangelical Lutheran Church. Many of the ELCA's missionaries in Japan have communicated that they are safe, said the Rev. Y. Franklin Ishida, ELCA program director for Asia-Pacific Continental Desk, the church said. See Home - Evangelical Lutheran Church in America for developments.

The Orthodox Church in America said its hierarchs, clergy and faithful are being asked to remember in prayer all those affected by the disaster and to support efforts undertaken by International Orthodox Christian Charities [IOCC], which has assembled its emergency response team to assess needs and possible responses.

"The devastation being experienced in Japan is numbing, and it is only appropriate that we respond in kind with our prayers for the suffering and departed and support for any and all humanitarian efforts," said His Beatitude, Metropolitan Jonah. "Not only has the earthquake -- the strongest in Japan's recorded history -- caused incalculable damage, but the tsunami it released and the attendant destruction of much of the nation's infrastructure are almost beyond comprehension. In addition to our prayers, our support of IOCC's efforts are crucial at this time." See The Orthodox Church in America for developments.

The Presbyterian Church (USA) said it has 10 mission co-workers in various cities across Japan. By mid-day March 11 staff in Presbyterian World Mission had received word from four that they were safe. None of the mission workers are based close to the northern coastal city of Sendai, which has taken the brunt of the impact.

Denominational leaders have issued a call to prayer. The Rev. Gradye Parsons, stated clerk; Elder Cynthia Bolbach, moderator of the 219th General Assembly; and Elder Linda Valentine, executive director of the General Assembly Mission Council urged Presbyterians to pray for all those affected by the disaster - victims and their families, aid workers, faith communities and leaders. "The magnitude of this kind of tragedy is difficult to grasp. Yet, our faith leads us to affirm that in even greater measure is the presence of God in the midst of the devastation," states the call. See Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) for details.

Reformed Church in America missionaries said, "Japan has just experienced the most significant earthquake in decades, some sources are saying the worst in 100 years," RCA missionaries Nathan and Nozomi Brownell said in an email to RCA Global Mission staff, "The worst hit area is Sendai City, the Miyagi Prefecuture and North Eastern coastal areas. The tsunami wave has been estimated at up to 7 meters (23 feet) high and reached up to 10 kilometers (6 miles) inland. There is significant damage and fatalities." See RCA - Reformed Church in America: Home for developments.

United Methodist reporter Linda Bloom filed this story after the earthquake: The Rev. Claudia Genung Yamamoto was having a late lunch with two church members in west Tokyo when the restaurant was shaken by the most powerful earthquake to strike Japan in at least a century.

As they rushed outside on what was a Friday afternoon in Tokyo, the earthquake stopped but the aftershocks began. "The ground kept moving and the telephone lines were swaying, so we were afraid," said Yamamoto, a United Methodist missionary and California native. "By
this time, everyone had come out of the buildings to wait in the street. I told my members to keep praying, and I did the same."

Hours later, Japan was struggling with the aftermath of a combined earthquake and tsunami that killed several hundred people, touched off dozens of fires and raised concerns about a possible radiation leak at a nuclear power plant. The impact was felt around the globe as tsunami alerts were posted in other countries.

United Methodists expressed concern and offered prayers for the people of Japan. The United Methodist Committee on Relief and Church World Service were consulting with partners in the region on emergency-relief needs. See Our mission is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. - UMC.org for developments.

Most of the member communions of the National Council of Churches and Church World Service were assessing their best responses to the earthquake this weekend and will announce their plans as they develop. Since its founding in 1950, the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA has been the leading force for shared ecumenical witness among Christians in the United States. The NCC's 37 member communions -- from a wide spectrum of Protestant, Anglican, Orthodox, Evangelical, historic African American and Living Peace churches -- include 45 million persons in more than 100,000 local congregations in communities across the nation.
NCC News contact: Philip E. Jenks, 212-870-2228 (office), 646-853-4212 (cell), pjenks@ncccusa.org

Help Support Relief Efforts In Japan

Mar 11, 2011 | The Wire
In response to the massive earthquake in Japan and the devastation it has caused, our Federation is mobilizing the community and accepting donations to help the victims and their families. Our international partners have already begun deploying rescue personnel and emergency medical officers and are assessing the critical, immediate needs in the hardest-hit areas.

We are reaching out to and working in partnership with our local Japanese-American community to find out how our Federation can be of assistance. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged Israel’s assistance in the wake of this natural disaster.

Please join us in our efforts by making a donation now to help meet the immediate needs of the victims and their families.

You can also make a donation by calling (323) 761-8413, or by mail:

The Jewish Federation
Japan Earthquake Relief Fund

6505 Wilshire Boulevard, Ste. 1000

Los Angeles, CA, 90048

100 percent of collected donations will be distributed to our network of partners and our Federation will absorb all administrative costs.

Watching the news footage of the earthquake and the damage it caused is heartbreaking. We mourn for all the victims and their loved ones, as well as everyone who has been hurt or displaced. We can only begin to imagine what they must be feeling. That’s why when a crisis arises, our Federation is there on our community’s behalf to make sure that people in urgent need are assisted immediately.

Please make a donation now.

Thank you for your compassion and support.

CIOGC sets up relief fund for victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan

(Chicago, March 11, 2011) - On behalf of the Muslim community in Illinois, The Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago offers its heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the people of Japan that were struck by one of the strongest earthquakes in its history this morning. The Council urged Chicago-area mosques to remember the people of Japan in the Friday sermon and ask community members to contribute generously to relief efforts .

The Council is in contact with FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and the Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships of the Department of Homeland Security in order to monitor the affects of the earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Japan, the West Coast and Pacific region.

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to those affected by this tragedy,"

said Dr. Zaher Sahloul, chairperson of the Council. "We have established a Japan Earthquake Relief Fund [insert link to donation page] and have started statewide fundraising for the victims of the earthquake and Tsunami through our charitable organizations Islamic Relief USA, Zakat Foundation and Helping Hands. And the Islamic Medical Association of North America (IMANA) is on standby to send Muslim physicians to assist in the medical relief of the victims, like they did in Haiti, Gaza and recently in Egypt." click here

 

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110316-N-2348B-004 TOMAKOMAI KO, Japan (March 16, 2011) Landing Craft Utility (LCU) 1627 transports Japan Ground Self-Defense Force trucks to the amphibious dock landing ship USS Tortuga (LSD 46). Tortuga is transporting the equipment to support Operation Tomodachi, a humanitarian assistance mission in the aftermath of a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Scott Bourque/Released)

110317-N-3999C-070 OMINATO, Japan (March 17, 2011) – Cmdr. Koji Goto, commanding officer JS Jintsu (DE 230) confirms the best place for anchorage with Cmdr. John Barnett, executive officer of USS Tortuga (LSD 46). Cmdr. Goto embarked with Tortuga from Tomakomai Ko to Ominato. Tortuga transported 97 Japan Ground Self-Defense Force vehicles between the two locations in support of Operation Tomodachi. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. K. Madison Carter/Released)

110317-N-3999C-512 OMINATO, Japan (March 17, 2011) – Members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) observe a JGSDF landing craft merge with USS Tortuga (LSD 46). This historic stern gate marriage helped Tortuga offload more than 30 JGSDF vehicles. The U. S. warship transported 97 JGSDF vehicles to Ominato. Tortuga is currently in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility in support of Operation Tomodachi. (U. S. Navy photo by Lt. K. Madison Carter/Released)

110315-N-3999C-009 TOMAKOMAI KO, Japan (March 15, 2011) – Members of USS Tortuga (LSD 46) meticulously check all vehicles and equipment on the flight deck before the ship gets underway to complete the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force onload. Tortuga loaded more than 50 vehicles on their flight deck Tuesday from the Tomakomai Ko pier. Tortuga is operating in Japan in support of Operation Tomodachi. (U. S. Navy Photo by Lt. K. Madison Carter/Released)

110316-N-2348B-016 TOMOKAMAI KO, Japan (March 16, 2011) – Japan Ground Self-Defense Force vehicles line the well deck of USS Tortuga (LSD 46) after being delivered by Landing Craft Utility (LCU) 1627. This is the first time in history that a U.S. warship has carried Japanese military assets. Tortuga is operating in the 7th Fleet area of responsibility to support Operation Tomodachi. (U. S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Scott Bourque/Released)

Tortuga Sailors, Japanese Army Forces Support Operation Tomodachi
Story Number: NNS110316-05 Release Date: 3/16/2011 9:36:00 AM

From Task Force 76 Public Affairs

TOMAKOMAI KO, Japan (NNS) -- USS Tortuga (LSD 46) Sailors and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) Northern Army soldiers loaded vehicles and trailers pierside in Tomakomai Ko, Japan, in support of earthquake and tsunami relief efforts March 15.

Tortuga's crew loaded 13 jeeps, 10 utility trailers, six water trailers and three humvees via crane onto the flight deck and additional equipment via landing craft into the well deck, totaling 90 vehicles and 300 JGSDF soldiers.

"This is an extraordinary opportunity for us," said Cmdr. Adrian Ragland, USS Tortuga commanding officer. "Seeing these vehicles on our ship really demonstrates the bonds between the U.S. and Japan."

Tortuga's visit to Tomakomai Ko , though brief, marks the first time a Navy ship has ever pulled into the port. After the ships stay, Tortuga will offload the equipment in Ominato, which will be used to transfer supplies, personnel and water to areas affected by the earthquake and tsunami in Northern Honshu in support of Operation Tomodachi.

 

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TODD PITMAN and ERIC TALMADGE, Associated Press Todd Pitman And Eric Talmadge, Associated Press – 1 hr 28 mins ago

SHIZUGAWA, Japan – An American helicopter crewman shouted above the din of the rotor: "What do these people need? Do they need food? Do they need medicine?"

The answer one week after a tsunami devastated Japan's northeast coast is: They need everything.

Aid has started trickling in, but much of it appears ad hoc and many survivors remain isolated and cold and are fending for themselves.

Two American military helicopters touched down on a hilltop above this flattened town Friday with boxes of canned beans and powdered milk for a community center that has become a shelter for those who lost their homes.

But blustery snow, fuel shortages and widespread damage to airports, roads and rails have hampered delivery of badly needed assistance to more than 400,000 survivors trying to stay fed and warm, often without electricity and running water in hastily setup shelters in schools and other public buildings.

A magnitude-9.0 earthquake struck offshore on March 11, creating a tsunami that swept over low-lying areas, carrying boats, cars and even buildings with it and destroying nearly everything in its path. More than 6,500 people are confirmed dead so far, and another 10,300 are missing.

The disaster also damaged a seaside nuclear power plant, which remains in crisis as workers struggle under dangerous conditions to prevent a meltdown and major radiation leaks.

In Hirota, survivors at one shelter are getting water from wells and mountain rivers. Helicopters have delivered some food, but not much. So far, they have instant noodles, fruit and bread. Companies and residents unaffected by the disaster have donated bedding and blankets.

Kouetsu Sasaki, a 60-year-old city hall worker, said the survivors still need gas, vegetables, socks, underwear, wet wipes and anti-bacterial lotion. There is some medicine, but not enough.

"We could be living like this for a long time, so all we can do is stay in good spirits," he said. "People here aren't angry or frustrated yet. ... But it's a big question mark whether we can keep living like this for weeks or months. I try to concentrate on what I need to do this morning, this day, and not think about how long it might last."

The community has been left largely to fend for itself.

When a fire broke out in the rubble, survivors ran from the shelter to put it out with seawater, said Hiroyoshi Murakami, 64, a retired tuna boat radio operator who is volunteering at the shelter.

"The thing we need most is gas," he said. "It's all going to official vehicles. Without gas, we've got no cars. Without cars, we've got no way to go to the hospital. We can't go to places where we could use the phone and communicate with the outside world."

The U.S. military, with 50,000 troops based in Japan, is helping the relief effort, but snow has limited helicopter flights, and American aircraft are also under orders to skirt the area around the nuclear plant to reduce the risk of radiation exposure.

"It's frustrating," said U.S. Navy rescue swimmer Jeff Pearson, 25, of Amarillo, Texas. "But we're doing all we can do. I think we are going to be able to get much more involved very soon."

His helicopter crew, based on the southern Japanese island of Okinawa, was heading farther north from Jinmachi Air Base in the city of Yamagata.

The region can expect some relief in about 24 hours in the way of warmer weather replacing bitter cold and snow, said Herbert Puempel of the U.N.'s World Meteorological Organization in Geneva. He said temperatures should climb enough to "take a little pressure off the people who are not housed" because of the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crisis.

A 24-vehicle U.S. Marines convoy reached the base Friday. They will run a refueling hub, move supplies by road and provide communications support.

Also Friday, Sendai airport was declared ready to receive aid deliveries on jumbo C-130 and C-17 military transport planes. The tsunami had flooded the tarmac, piling up small planes and cars and leaving behind a layer of muck and debris.

"The airport in Sendai is now functional," said Japanese Lt. Col. Hiroya Goto, a military doctor acting as a liaison for the U.S.-Japan military mission. "That's the biggest city that was hit, and now that the runway has been cleared, we expect a lot of help to start coming in."

At the community center in Shizugawa — an area of Minamisanriku town — food is coming from the local government and area volunteers and groups. Survivors eat twice a day. A mobile operator set up a cell phone tower on a truck outside the center.

Koji and Yaeko Sato, husband and wife, sat on the floor of the shelter beside a window where the names of the dead and missing are listed. Their home is gone; the tsunami left only a few large buildings standing. Their car is undamaged, but they have no gas.

Koji, 58, is a carpenter. He usually builds homes. This week, for the first time in his life, he is making coffins — 30 in all working with three others.

Asked what difficulties they are facing, he said: "I haven't had time to think about it. All I have been doing is making coffins."
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Talmadge reported from Yamagata. Associated Press writer Foster Klug in Hirota and AP photographer David Guttenfelder in Shizugawa contributed to this story.

110315-N-KK192-082d Debris, rubble and damaged vehicles line the streets for several blocks in the fishing town of Ofunato, Japan, March 15, 2011, following an 8.9-magnitude earthquake and tsunami. Teams from the United States, United Kingdom and China are assisting in searching for missing residents. U.S. Navy photo

A satellite image collected by Airmen with the Electronic Systems Center-managed Eagle Vision program show the Fukushima Dai-ni nuclear power plant in Japan after the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck March 11. (U.S. Air Force photo) STORY

110317-F-YC711-074 YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (March 17, 2011) U.S. Air Force Airmen and members of the Japan Ground Self-Defense force load high-capacity pumps provided by the U.S. Navy onto a truck. The five pumps will be used by Japan's Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Group Nuclear Asset Management Department to assist in the effort to cool the core of the damaged No. 3 reactor at the Fukushima Dai-Ichi nuclear power plant. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Andrea Salazar/Released)

110314-F-II002-510Members of a Japanese disaster medical assistance team off-load an earthquake victim from an HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopter March 14, 2011, at Sendai, Japan. U.S. Air Force search and rescue Airmen transported the injured man from a remote island to a nearby hospital for treatment. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Katrina M. Menchacha)

110315-N-MU720-088 U.S. Navy Seaman Alexander Weber and U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Phil Sechrist cut down trees and remove branches from a park at the fishing port in Misawa, Japan, March 15, 2011. Weber is a mineman assigned to Naval Munitions Command East Asia Division Unit Misawa and Sechrist is assigned to the Misawa Air Base. U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Devon Dow

110316-M-VD776-008 MARINE CORPS AIR STATION FUTENMA, Okinawa (March 16, 2011) Marines assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 36, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, board a KC-130J Super Hercules aircraft to provide assistance to areas in Japan affected by a 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Justin Wheeler/Released)

110317-N-ZS026-049 PACIFIC OCEAN (March 17, 2011) MH-60 Sea Hawk helicopters assigned to the Wildcards of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 23 transfer supplies from the Military Sealift Command fleet replensihment oiler USNS Rappahannock (T-AO 204), left, to the amphibious assault ship USS Boxer (LHD 4) as the amphibious transport ship USS Green Bay (LPD 20) pulls alongside Rappahannock to receive supplies. Boxer and Green Bay are part of the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group underway on a scheduled deployment to the western Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Trevor Welsh/Released)

President Barack Obama writes in a condolence book at the Embassy of Japan, March 17, 2011. White House photo by Pete Souza

Obama Pledges Support for Japanese Stricken in Tsunami's Wake

By Lisa Daniel
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 17, 2011 – The United States is using all available resources to assist a stricken Japan reeling from the effects of a massive earthquake, a follow-on tsunami and a battered nuclear power infrastructure, President Barack Obama told reporters today at the White House.

“We are working aggressively to support our Japanese ally at this time of extraordinary challenge,” Obama said. “Search and rescue teams are on the ground in Japan to help the recovery effort … The U.S. military, which has helped to ensure the security of Japan for decades, is working around the clock.”

Already, “we’ve flown hundreds of missions to support the recovery efforts, and distributed thousands of pounds of food and water to the Japanese people,” he said. “We’ve also deployed some of our leading experts to help contain the damage at Japan’s nuclear reactors. We’re sharing with them expertise, equipment, and technology so that the courageous responders on the scene have the benefit of American teamwork and support.”

Some of Japan’s nuclear facilities have been in a state of emergency since a massive March 11 earthquake, followed by a tsunami, devastated parts of the country’s main island of Honshu.

Last night, Obama said, he authorized the movement of Americans located within 50 miles of Japan’s nuclear facility at Fukushima Daiichi.

“Even as Japanese responders continue to do heroic work, we know that the damage to the nuclear reactors…poses a substantial risk to people who are nearby,” the president said. “This decision was based upon a careful scientific evaluation and the guidelines we would use to keep our citizens safe here in the United States, or anywhere in the world.”

Beyond the 50-mile radius, Obama said, “the risks do not currently call for an evacuation. But we do have a responsibility to take prudent and precautionary measures to educate those Americans who may be endangered by exposure to radiation if the situation deteriorates.”

Damage at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power facility has caused the Defense Department to authorize the voluntary departure of eligible military family members from Japan to the United States. The State Department has established a similar program for family members living in Japan.

Obama urged Americans in Japan to continue to monitor the situation closely, to follow the guidance of the U.S. and Japanese governments, and to contact the U.S. embassy and consulates in Japan for assistance.

The president said he knows that many Americans are worried about possible risks to the United States from radiation in Japan.

“So I want to be very clear: we do not expect harmful levels of radiation to reach the United States, whether it’s the West Coast, Hawaii, Alaska or U.S. territories in the Pacific,” he said. “This is the judgment of our Nuclear Regulatory Commission and many other experts.”

The Centers for Disease Control and other public health experts do not recommend that people in the United States take precautionary measures beyond staying informed, Obama said, adding that he’s commissioned a review of U.S. nuclear facilities.

Obama, who’d returned from a visit to the Japanese embassy here before speaking to reporters in the White House’s Rose Garden, said the Japanese people “are not alone in this time of great trial and sorrow. Across the Pacific, they will find a hand of support extended from the United States as they get back on their feet.

“We have an alliance that was forged more than a half century ago, and strengthened by shared interests and democratic values,” he added. “Our people share ties of family, ties of culture, and ties of commerce. Our troops have served to protect Japan’s shores, and our citizens have found opportunity and friendship in Japan’s cities and towns.”

In the coming days, Obama said, the United States will continue to do everything possible to ensure the safety of Americans in Japan while assisting the Japanese as they recover from the disaster.

Helping Japan is Pacific Command's Top Priority

By Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, March 17, 2011 – U.S. forces in Japan are engaged in one of the biggest natural and manmade disasters of a lifetime, Navy Adm. Robert F. Willard said here tonight.

Willard, commander of the U.S. Pacific Command, spoke over the phone from Hawaii to the Pentagon press corps about what the U.S. military is doing to help the Japanese Self-Defense Force respond to the disaster caused by the March 11 earthquake, tsunami and subsequent nuclear emergency.

“At U.S. Pacific Command we’re all very saddened by the tremendous losses that the Japanese have experienced,” Willard said, adding that he has served twice in Japan during his Navy career.

In an effort Pacom is calling Operation Tomodachi -- the Japanese word for friendship -- “we are placing our very highest priority on our operations in support of our ally Japan,” the admiral said.

Willard’s command has Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Army and Special Operations Command troops in Japan, Willard said, performing functions ranging from bringing food, water and other supplies to the more than 500,000 displaced citizens of northeast Honshu, Japan’s main island.

“We’re providing logistics support and in some cases direct support,” Willard said, noting that Gen. Ryoichi Oriki, the chief of staff of Japan’s Ground Self Defense Force and his troops are helping to mitigate situations near damaged nuclear power plants.

Willard said he and his wife will soon fly from Hawaii to Japan to “visit our forces and their families and engage our Japanese friends.”

“We’re confident that Japan will achieve a full recovery and we’ll do our utmost to ensure that happens,” he said.

Pacom has given Gen. Oriki “a long list of areas in which we believe we can help,” Willard said. “We’re also seeking additional ideas on unique technologies that we might bring in to help them with some of the most difficult parts of assessing the condition of the reactors and then responding to what they find.”

Willard said U.S. military forces have a multitude of capabilities that are being shared with the Japanese government and its military, and other organizations involved in the aid effort.

“We have tremendous logistics capabilities and we’re supplying relevant equipment to the Japanese as well as to U.S. government agencies as they come into support this effort,” he said.

Other U.S. capabilities, the admiral said, include radiological controls and teams in place to assist in everything from radiation monitoring to decontamination. Airborne systems are being flown on helicopters and airplanes to monitor radioactivity in the area.

“Where we encounter radiological effects we report those broadly within our own forces and to the Japanese,” Willard said.

Teams on the ground have monitoring equipment, he said, noting individuals are carrying dosimeters to monitor radioactivity and ships also can gauge such activity.

“We have assisted in bringing other systems into the country that are able to characterize some of the ground contamination should it occur,” the admiral said.

Those systems arrived into the region today, he said, and will fly on a regular basis to assist both the U.S. and Japanese governments in characterizing conditions around damaged nuclear facilities.

A nine-member team of military experts has arrived in Japan from U.S Northern Command to conduct a broad assessment of the situation throughout the disaster area, including the area around the damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, Willard said.

The team, he said, also will determine “whether or not we should rationalize bringing a larger force forward. I have requested a force of about 450 radiological and consequence management experts to be available to us there on a prepare-to-deploy order.”

Because of rising levels of radiation from the Fukushima plant, U.S. citizens are not allowed within 50 miles of the facility, Willard said.

“While the 50-mile limit is a good idea for much of the humanitarian assistance and disaster response effort that’s currently ongoing,” he added, “when necessary we will conduct operations inside that radius when they are in support of the Japanese Defense Forces.”

Willard said U.S. forces are working alongside people in organizations representing nearly 100 other countries that also are providing aid and support to the stricken Japanese populace.

“There’s a great synergy by the international community in this effort and we’re proud to be a part of it,” he said.