Wright-Patt reservists join Ebola support operations

  • Published
  • By 445th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  A reserve aircrew from the 445th Airlift Wing's 89th Airlift Squadron departed Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio Oct. 16 to deliver cargo in support of Ebola stricken regions of West Africa.

The crew stopped at Olmsted Air National Guard Base in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, to pick up a large 60-ton four wheeled crane and transported it to Monrovia, Liberia. The crane will be used to pick up large metal transport containers.

"We are excited to have had the opportunity to help the people in Africa as they fight to eradicate the Ebola virus. We're glad to have been a part of this vital effort," said Capt. Dustin Cramer, 89th Airlift Squadron aircraft commander.

The U.S. military is providing medical personnel to support health care provider training, engineers to construct Ebola treatment units, logisticians and other transportation personnel to support the regional intermediate staging base, as well as command and control staff for the Joint Force Command headquarters in Liberia.

"I am proud of our aircrew who supported this vital effort. The mission delivered critical supplies to the region. The crew stopped briefly and left the area within three hours, and there was little danger of the crew or aircraft coming into contact with personnel affected by Ebola, said Col. Jeffrey McGalliard, 445th Airlift Wing commander.

While there was no danger to these crewmembers, they received briefings from the 88th Air Base Wing Medical Group prior to departure educating them on precautions to take to further minimize any chance of exposure. They were briefed and trained on how to handle any medical concerns.

McGalliard anticipates that the crew will be tasked again to support missions for Operation United Assistance and will continue as long as there is a need.