Soldiers Provide Communications Support in Haiti

Army Pfc. Paul Garland and Pfc. Sean McCall check the setup up of an antenna for voice and data tactical communications in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Feb. 28, 2010. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Petty Officer Robert J. Fluegel

By Navy Lt. Arlo Abrahamson, Special to American Forces Press Service

PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti - Soldiers assigned to the communications directorate for the Joint Forces Special Operations Component Command have played a critical role in supporting civil affairs and other humanitarian operations conducted by U.S. special operations forces here during Operation Unified Response.

Special operations forces served as the commander's eyes on the ground during the early days of the rescue and recovery phases of relief operations in the wake of a magnitude 7.0 earthquake that struck Jan. 12. These tasks rely heavily on vital links between forward elements and operational commanders, a support capability that Signal Corps soldiers bring to an operation.

"There's a lot of coordination and streamlining that goes into our job, because we have to work across a variety of networks and satellite feeds," said Army Staff Sgt. Kelly Williams, a communications team leader. "We have to ensure the end user, our people in the field, have the signal capabilities they need to accomplish their assigned tasks."

To remain mission capable, Williams said, computer networks must continue to run efficiently, and tactical, radio and satellite communications equipment must be managed and maintained.

"There's a lot of security protocols and other procedures we must follow to run efficient networks," Williams said, "but we try to make that as transparent as possible for our users."

But as Army Staff Sgt. Wayne Potts explained, there's also a hands-on portion of their mission.

"The civil affairs teams bring communications equipment with them to the field, but we show them how to get the most out of this equipment," Potts said. "We want to make sure they have the right capabilities when they get to where they are going so they can concentrate on the overall mission we have here in Haiti."

That mission, humanitarian operations, is one these soldiers know they have enhanced with the skills they bring to the operation.

"We feel good knowing we played a part in the overall success of our mission," said Army Sgt. Derek Auguste. "Communications are vital to any operation – everyone has to talk and coordinate with each other. We feel like we created an environment where that could be successful."

USS Nassau ARG/24th MEU Depart Haiti

ABOARD USS NASSAU, At Sea (NNS) -- The USS Nassau Amphibious Ready Group (ARG) with embarked 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) departed Haiti Feb. 7, continuing on its originally scheduled deployment to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility (AOR).

The Nassau ARG includes ships from Amphibious Squadron (PHIBRON) 8: the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Nassau (LHA 4), the amphibious transport dock ship USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19) and the amphibious dock landing ship USS Ashland (LSD 48).

The three ships and nearly 2,000 Sailors departed Virginia Jan. 18 on a deployment to the CENTCOM AOR, but were diverted to Haiti to provide assistance to the victims of the earthquake that struck the country Jan. 12, after on-loading more than 2,300 Marines of the 24th MEU.

Air Force Gen. Douglas Fraser, commander of U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), released the ARG/MEU from the mission after assessments made from leadership of the multinational interagency effort indicated that ground-based relief efforts had drastically improved.

"Thanks to the expeditionary capabilities of the Nassau ARG with embarked 24th MEU, we were able to help the government of Haiti, UN and international relief workers mitigate the immediate impact of the earthquake on communities both near and further away from the epicenter," Fraser said. "The ongoing contributions of U.S. and international relief organizations with extensive experience and expertise in helping nations recover from disasters has lessened the need for units with capabilities like those of the Nassau ARG and the 24th MEU, so I have released them from this mission with our utmost gratitude for their timely support to this important humanitarian mission."

While on the ground in Haiti, the Marines of the 24th MEU were instrumental in assisting the World Food Program (WFP) in Carrefour and Maison Lecrai. WFP is conducting a targeted and systematic food distribution to the Haitian people at 16 distribution sites around Haiti.

The 24th MEU also assisted Joint Task Force (JTF) Haiti with the construction of a 250-bed interim aftercare medical facility in Port-au-Prince that will be turned over to the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to provide follow-on care for convalescent patients recovering from surgeries.

Medical and dental personnel from the 24th MEU treated more than 100 Haitians on the island of Gonave. Additionally, medical personnel aboard Nassau and Mesa Verde treated 16 Haitian earthquake victims aboard shipboard medical facilities.

"I'm very grateful and blessed that I could help make a really big difference in a time of need," said Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Laketta Thomas of Nassau. "It means so much to me to know that I have provided care, support and understanding to those that needed help."

Lance Cpl. Brian O. Melendez echoed similar thoughts.

"The satisfaction of being able to help here means a lot," he said. "The Haitian people needed our help, and we were able to do a lot for them."

The Nassau ARG/24th MEU are en route the U.S. 5th Fleet AOR to conduct theater security cooperation missions and serve as 5th Fleet's Theater Reserve, relieving the USS Bonhomme Richard ARG and 11th MEU.

On Saturday, two other Navy ships, USS Normandy (CG 60) and USS Underwood (FFG 36), also completed operations in Haiti. On station for a total of 21 days, Normandy and its crew delivered meals donated by the not-for-profit organization "Kids Against Hunger," more than 1,000 gallons of water, and other food items to towns on the Haitian island of La Gonave.

Underwood and its attached Helicopter Anti-submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 60, Detachment 1, arrived in Haiti Jan. 16 and immediately began providing support to the Naval Oceanographic Center's critical survey, making it possible for relief ships to navigate safely in and out of the Port-au-Prince harbor. Underwood quickly became a lifeline for relief efforts, delivering hundreds of boxes including food and water, conducting 82 lifesaving medical evacuations and transporting approximately 600 personnel.

While these humanitarian assistance assets departed the theatre, another joined the mission, as SOUTHCOM deployed a team of logistics specialists from Army installations nationwide. The Joint Logistics Command (JLC) comprises 2,000 troops that will support the movement of relief supplies from ports of entry to distribution points with landing craft, cargo handling equipment and transport vehicles.

USS Carl Vinson Departs Haiti; Carrier Rendered Critical First Response

USS CARL VINSON, At Sea (NNS) -- The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) departed the waters near Port-au-Prince, Haiti Feb. 1 after rendering humanitarian assistance to the victims of a massive 7.0 earthquake that struck the Caribbean nation Jan. 12.

Arriving on station less than 72 hours after the quake, Carl Vinson immediately rendered assistance. Over two weeks, Vinson and its embarked 19 helicopters flew more than 2,200 sorties, delivering more than 166 tons of food, 89,000 gallons of water and 38,700 lbs. of medical supplies to earthquake victims.

Additionally, Vinson's helicopters conducted 476 medical evacuations (MEDEVACs) and the ship's doctors and corpsmen treated 60 patients in its medical ward.

"I think our Navy team did some great work here for the people of Haiti," Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group Commander Rear. Adm. Ted Branch said.

Carl Vinson's primary role in the humanitarian mission was as a first responder, providing critical airlift and command and control capabilities as the flagship of Task Force 41, the Navy's sea base supporting Joint Task Force (JTF) Haiti.

Prior to departure, the Vinson left behind much of its airlift capability, transferring 10 helicopters to other units in JTF-Haiti. Additionally, the improvement of the relief distribution effort on the ground, in partnership with the Haiti government, the United Nations, the international community, and supporting organizations have reduced the need of the ship's first responder role.

With the departure of Carl Vinson, Rear Adm. Dave Thomas assumes command of Task Force 41 (CTF 41), the U.S. Navy's sea-based element supporting JTF-Haiti. Thomas is embarked aboard the task force's flagship, the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5).

The Bataan Amphibious Ready Group, with elements of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), are specially configured for sustained humanitarian assistance missions, including air and sealift capabilities, medical and engineering support and water purification.

While in support of Operation Unified Response, Vinson Sailors saw firsthand the results of their work in support of the Haitian people.

"Every one of my Sailors wanted to go ashore to help," said Carl Vinson Commanding Officer Capt. Bruce Lindsey. "It was inspiring to see such an outpouring of volunteerism. America should be very proud of the Sailors that they have serving--their country and others."

Vinson Sailors said they were proud of their efforts in support of the numerous humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions in which they were involved.

"I had a chance to talk to some of the Haitians," said Machinist's Mate Fireman Evangelina Abarca. "It hurt a lot to know that many of them had lost family members, but I've never been more proud to say that I am a member of the United States Navy."

USS Carl Vinson will now continue on its original mission, performing Theater Security Cooperation (TSC) engagements with key Latin American partners while transiting to its homeport of San Diego.

VP-62 Flies Haiti Missions

By Clark Pierce, Jax Air News

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Crew members from Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville flight line boarded a Patrol Squadron 62 P-3C Orion Jan. 27 in support of Operation Unified Response in Haiti.

"Our primary mission is to monitor infrastructure – such as roads, bridges and harbors – along with ad hoc tasking as required," said VP-62 "Broadarrows" Plane Commander Lt. Cmdr. Jamey Shuemaker said. "Our crew will note any areas of concern, including poor road conditions, roadblocks and congestion. We also provide information on population migrations from Port-au-Prince to rural towns and agricultural areas."

VP-62 is a Reserve force squadron commissioned in 1970 to a provide fully manned and equipped P-3C squadron.

"Another task we perform is identifying landing sites for relief helicopters. Government agencies on the ground use our intelligence to ensure there are passable roads for humanitarian aid vehicles departing the capital. We also evaluate port access and activity, along with damage assessments along the coast," said Cmdr. Chris Moorehead, flight mission commander.

"NAS Jacksonville has been heavily involved with transporting relief supplies to NS Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and then on to the Haitian people," said NAS Commanding Officer Capt. Jac Scorby Jr. "As of Jan. 27, our base has dispatched 46 airlifts totaling 2.53 million pounds of food, medical supplies and other material."

The squadron has selected Reservists who commute across the southeastern United States to take part in proficiency training and fleet contributory support missions such as Operation Unified Response.

TF 48 Routes Haiti Relief Through Gitmo

By Army Staff Sgt. Blair Heusdens, Joint Task Force Guantanamo Public Affairs

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba (NNS) -- Task Force 48 has been established to support the shipment of supplies during Operation Unified Response and provide logistical support to Joint Task Force (JTF) Haiti at U.S. Naval Station (NAVSTA) Guantanamo Bay after the Jan. 12 earthquake.

NAVSTA Guantanamo Bay is strategically located to provide humanitarian assistance and support relief efforts as part of Operation Unified Response.

"Because of its location and the airfield and seaport here, Guantanamo is an ideal spot for a joint logistics hub," said Rear Adm. Patricia Wolfe, commander, Task Force 48, which supports the shipment of humanitarian supplies and personnel between the United States and other nations through Guantanamo to landing zones in Haiti and offshore ships.

Personnel at the joint logistics hub work day and night to move food, water, personnel and medical supplies to the areas in Haiti where they are needed most.

In the immediate aftermath of the earthquake, JTF Guantanamo and NAVSTA Guantanamo Bay stepped in as a bridging agent to facilitate movement of material and supplies to Haiti until Task Force 48 stood up.

"We immediately partnered with the naval station commander to assist in the increased operations as a result of the horrible tragedy in Haiti," said Rear Adm. Tom Copeman, JTF Guantanamo commander. "Since the arrival of Task Force 48, we have provided our expertise and local knowledge for their continued support in Operation Unified Response."

To make this large-scale movement of supplies possible, Task Force 48 is using a combination of air and sea assets, both civilian and military, to coordinate and move lifesaving aid to the earthquake victims.

"We're using every conceivable means to get supplies to Haiti where they are needed," Wolfe said.

The air terminal at Guantanamo hosts a variety of aircraft including cargo planes, passenger aircraft, helicopter support and the C-2 Greyhound carrier on board delivery aircraft which facilitate movement between the naval base and the many ships in the area. The seaport at Guantanamo Bay is another important asset to the humanitarian mission. Various military and international ships dock at the naval station to pick up, transfer or deliver supplies.

Wolfe knows the importance of routing assets through Guantanamo, just 170 miles from Port-au-Prince, and getting the Task Force 48 infrastructure and command in place to make the delivery of humanitarian assistance quicker and smoother.

"The airport in Haiti is overwhelmed," said Wolfe.
"Without coordination, material would come from all over and no one would have control."

Although supplies and assets continue to arrive to augment the mission at Guantanamo Bay, Wolfe is pleased with the progress of the task force in such a short time.

"So far the mission has been successful," said Wolfe. "We're keeping the ships supplied and moving supplies out of Guantanamo."

Task Force 48 will continue to manage all air and sea assets at NAVSTA Guantanamo Bay and work with all multinational partners in the effort to provide humanitarian assistance and to sustain the force in the relief effort.

Operation Unified Response Support Flows Nonstop

By Kaylee LaRocque, Naval Air Station Jacksonville Public Affairs

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- Naval Air Station (NAS) Jacksonville civilian and military personnel have been working nonstop at the airfield palletizing thousands of pounds of materials for shipment to Haiti as part of Operation Unified Response.

As of Jan. 26, NAS Jacksonville personnel have filled 22 C-130s Hercules, 11 C-40s Clippers, seven Boeing 747s and one C-17 Globemaster III with 2.3 million pounds of water, food, medical supplies, tents and radios for the relief effort in Haiti following an earthquake Jan. 12.

"Since we began supporting Operation Unified Response, we've unloaded approximately 60 semi trucks filled with water, humanitarian daily rations, tents and medical supplies and have spent days preparing them for transport and loading them onto cargo planes headed to Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and then on to Haiti," said Doug Chaney, NAS Jacksonville airfield facilities manager. "We are also supporting personnel transports to Cuba, USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) and Haiti. VRC 30 (Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 30) has been in and out of here continuously to support the Vinson. And now, USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75) is off the coast conducting workups so we are supporting the aircraft for their training. That plus all the C-130s coming in from National Guard units all over the country, the C-17s and 747s, we are extremely busy."

"We are working extremely close with the airfield manager at Guantanamo Bay so we don't inundate them with aircraft. We have become their holding ramp until we're cleared to send the cargo planes south. We are also trying to stay ahead of the game by having pallets ready to go when the aircraft arrive here so they leave with full loads. This has been a huge challenge with cargo issues and coordinating all the flights," continued Chaney.

"But, the NAS Jacksonville team has stepped up to help with this mission. They've pulled together and are helping in any way they can. We have no idea how long this will last, but we'll do what we need to in support of the relief efforts," added Chaney. "We've been working hand-in-hand with Defense Distribution Depot Jacksonville personnel who have been awesome. They've provided me with forklifts, drivers, pallets, strapping and anything I need to get the job done – all I have to do is make a call."

Chaney was also quick to mention the military members helping with the mission.

"Sailors from various departments and tenant commands have been extremely busy building pallets and helping in any way they can. It's taking a toll, but this is when we are at our best," he said.

NAS Jacksonville Sailors and civilians work diligently to get the job done in order to get supplies to those in need. Sam Brown, NAS Jacksonville Air Operations Department airfield facilities division cargo handler, has been working long hours unloading trucks and loading numerous aircraft in support of the relief efforts.

"We have a good supervisor here and don't have too much stress. We know what needs to be done and we do it no matter how long it takes or how many trucks come in to be unloaded. However, I wish I was in Haiti," said Brown.

Chief Logistics Specialist (AW/SW) Reuben Amarh from U.S. 4th Fleet has been working at NAS Jacksonville since Jan. 15, helping coordinate the loading of the cargo planes.

"We just keep loading these aircraft with materials until the mission is accomplished. The people here have really been great palletizing the items, moving the pallets and loading the aircraft. Everything has been running pretty smoothly," said Amarh.

A team of air traffic controllers from NAS Jacksonville's Air Department work to keep the aircraft continually coming and going in a safe, efficient manner.

"NAS Jacksonville Air Traffic Control Division has had to step up manning levels to handle the increase of air traffic operations in support of Haiti relief efforts. The airfield is supporting these efforts 24 hours a day, seven days a week," said Lt. Michael Fahnestock from NAS Jacksonville's Air Department.

"What is challenging is that the controllers are working with an increase of larger aircraft such as Boeing 747s, C-130s and C-40s, which require more landing/departing separation between aircraft due to wake turbulence criteria. These additional operations are taking place along with our normal operations; however, with the experience staff on duty, there have been minimal delays," said Fahnestock.

So until the mission is complete, NAS Jacksonville personnel will continue to work together to support the Navy's participation in Operation Unified Response.

VRC-40: Supporting Operation Unified Response

Equipment and supplies are loaded onto a C-2A Greyhound assigned to the Rawhides of Fleet Logistical Support Squadron (VRC) 40 at the airfield at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay. The Rawhides are transporting personnel to the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) to support disaster relief efforts following a 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Haiti on Jan. 12, 2010. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Bill Mesta/Released)

By Army Sgt. Michael Baltz, Joint Task Force Guantanamo

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba (NNS) -- Service members from Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VRC) 40 arrived at U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay to help support Operation Unified Response after the 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Haiti Jan. 12.

The squadron, based out of Norfolk, Va., has been providing critical logistical support by transporting more than 300 tons of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief cargo to the people of Haiti.

"We feel like we are making a difference," said Lt. Cmdr. Mike Zaniko, the operations officer for VRC-40. "In a routine six-month deployment, a squad like ours would normally transport about 500 tons of cargo. We have done more than half that in our first week."

The VRC-40's mission is to facilitate the movement of high priority cargo, mail and passengers to and from Atlantic fleet carriers. Additionally, they also train top-notch pilots, aircrew and maintainers. They are equipped with six C-2A Greyhounds, which are conducting three to four missions nightly while deployed to Guantanamo.

"We fly during the night to limit the air traffic during the day," Zaniko said. "This works out well because, when everyone wakes-up, they have their supplies, and we continue to move forward."

Greyhounds can carry up to 10,000 pounds of cargo, which could include personnel.

"We are currently flying cargo to Haiti and to the USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70)," said Naval Air Crewman 2nd Class Nicholas Ingram. "We also fly doctors and search and rescue teams to help support the mission."

Ingram and naval Air Crewman 2nd Class Casey Marshall, have been on more than 15 logistical missions in just their first week.

"The most challenging part of the job is maintaining flexibility and being adaptable in every situation," Marshall said. "We have long days and long nights, but we do it with a smile on our face. Knowing that we are helping the people in Haiti, our sacrifices are minimal compared to theirs, and I enjoy having the ability to help them out."

"Everyone in our unit is working hard," Ingram chimed in. "The faster we get everything going, the faster we can help them."

"We are all excited to be here and to be able to help," Zaniko said. "I am very proud of everyone working so hard to accomplish the mission."

Air Terminal at Gitmo Supports Haiti Relief Effort

A Boeing 747 contracted by the U.S. Air Force's Air Mobility Command, lands at the Guantanamo Bay airfield with humanitarian supplies. The humanitarian supplies are part of Operation Unified Response, a joint operation providing humanitarian assistance following a 7.0 magnitude earthquake that devastated Haiti on Jan. 12, 2010. (U.S. Navy photo by Chief Mass Communication Specialist Bill Mesta/Released)

By Mass Communications Specialist 1st Class Edward Flynn

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba (NNS) -- U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay and Joint Task Force Guantanamo continue support of disaster relief efforts following the devastating earthquake in Haiti Jan. 12.

A joint logistics hub at the naval station and the air terminal has been established to coordinate and lead humanitarian relief efforts to the island.

Task Force 48 has been tasked to coordinate the deliver this aid to Haiti.

"The military personnel here are working non-stop, around-the-clock, coordinating the air and sea assets to deliver immediate, lifesaving supplies to Haiti," said Rear Adm. Patricia Wolfe, commander, Task Force 48.

Military and base personnel are working around-the-clock to coordinate transport of supplies to Haiti. This rapid lift of water, food and medical supplies, including blood donations, will help the devastated country.

"We are all here doing what we signed up for," said Lt. Kimberly Gentner, with Helicopter Mine Countermeasures Squadron 14. Gentner praised those working at the air terminal for their hard work in ensuring heavy cargo, food, water and medical supplies are transported from the terminal to Haiti. From operations, flight control, humanitarian assistances providers, cargo handlers and logistics specialists, the team assembled at the air terminal requires a wide range of technical skills needed for mission success.

In any joint mission or task force, communication is paramount for success. "The level of cooperation we received from U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay is exceptional," said Lt. Devin Lewis, detachment maintenance officer of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron 40. "Although logistics is always a challenge, we work extremely hard knowing we are saving lives."

At the air terminal, the task of coordinating the personnel manifest is organized by Sailors from the naval station. Checking luggage, following U.S. travel guidelines and documenting personnel arriving and departing the island is necessary to ensure accountability and safety.

"The people of Haiti need our help and I'm glad to be part of this important mission," said Yeoman 2nd Class Robert Sanders, an arrival coordinator at the air terminal. Sanders credited his team with assisting more than 700 military personnel and civilians in arriving or departing the island since Jan. 21. "Every job is important and the ultimate goal is to ensure the supplies reach the people of Haiti."

AFSOUTH officials guide Air Force Haiti relief effort

by Tech. Sgt. Eric Petosky, 12th Air Force Public Affairs

DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. (AFNS) -- Airmen from across the United States are participating in the Haitian earthquake joint relief effort while the as Air Forces Southern members guide the effort from hundreds of miles away in the Arizona desert.

Air Force officials have an integral role in the relief efforts, from reopening the Toussaint L'Ouverture Airport in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and dedicating hundreds of hours of flight time to airlift aid into Haiti, to help maximize efficiency of airfield operations and providing emergency medical care to Haitian citizens in need.

As soon as the earthquake struck, AFSOUTH planners started collecting information to formulate a way to best use Air Force assets. As the air component to U.S. Southern Command, the combatant command responsible for Central America, South America and much of the Caribbean including Haiti, the AFSOUTH functional staff immediately implemented around-the-clock operations to determine how best to support Operation Unified Response.

"The primary duties of the AFSOUTH staff here are to deploy, sustain and eventually redeploy Air Force forces assigned to Joint Task Force-Haiti," said Col. Bryan Bearden, the AFSOUTH director of operations and plans. "We have to get the right people, equipment and supplies, in right the place, at the right time, to support the men and women on the ground. Within the two-week period that has passed since the earthquake, AFSOUTH has moved mountains to support Haiti and the international community to bring supplies in. We'll continue doing that, while sustaining the forces down there with supplies of their own."

More than 600 Airmen are currently participating in Operation Unified Response in Haiti.The initial Air Force response included special tactics teams from Hurlburt Field, Fla., who helped restore air traffic control at the airport and participated in search and rescue missions. In addition, Airmen from the 621st Contingency Response Group at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, N.J., deployed to manage airfield operations as relief flights started arriving from all over the world.

As the operation progresses, AFSOUTH officials will replace those contingency response units with regular Air Force units, that requires a great deal of planning and coordination, Colonel Bearden said. The expertise of people serving in various functional areas is key to keeping the flow of Airmen, supplies and equipment constant.

For example, the personnel and services directorate is responsible for validating, tasking and tracking the Airmen who have deployed, but also providing food and water. The complicated process involves coordination with many different agencies, but the staff is getting the job done, said Maj. Sherard Dorroh, the 12th Air Force headquarter squadron section commander.

"We are no-kidding putting boots on the ground," Major Dorroh said. "It has been a bittersweet success, though, because it comes on the heels of what happened to the people of Haiti. But, what we do puts people in a position to provide relief to the Haitian people. That's our motivation; we have to get our stuff done right."

In logistics and installations and mission support functional areas at AFSOUTH, logisticians in a variety of specialties make sure the forces, supplies and necessary equipment arrive in Haiti and can be sustained. A major function of the logistics section is synchronizing movement of Air Force assets with other service components.

Since airlift has been the primary means of delivering relief supplies, the order in which things arrive has to be logical and efficient, said Lt. Col. Konrad Cote, logistics and installations and mission support deputy director.

The logistics staff has worked on everything imaginable, from establishing a tent city capable of housing 1,250 Airmen, to moving firefighting equipment, security forces and even ambulances. In total, Air Force officials have moved 8,376 short tons of cargo and delivered 6,145 passengers to Haiti.

"The logistics planning process in a very dynamic and unsure environment has been our greatest success and also our greatest challenge," said Colonel Cote, noting that being able to establish an air expeditionary group in two weeks is a great accomplishment. "I'm blessed to work with 30 highly skilled, highly motivated professionals."

More than 125 Airmen and civilians from six Air Force specialties at AFSOUTH are actively involved in planning Air Force relief efforts for Operation Unified Response.

"I'm continually impressed with the ability of our Airmen to perform under pressure and the capability our Air Force brings to the joint and international community responding to this crisis," he said. "Our team has performed magnificently thus far. There is still a lot of work to do and I have no doubt the men and women of this headquarters are still up for that challenge."

U-2 to provide imagery support in Haiti

A U-2 taxies down the flightline Jan. 27, 2010 at Beale Air Force Base, Calif., in preparation for takeoff to Robins Air Force Base, Ga. The U-2 will provide critical imagery support in the ongoing humanitarian relief mission in Haiti. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Craig Cisek)

by Tech. Sgt. Luke Johnson
9th Reconnaissance Wing Public Affairs

1/28/2010 - BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) -- A U-2 launched from Beale Air Force Base Jan. 27 to provide critical imagery support in the ongoing humanitarian relief mission in Haiti.

The aircraft, temporarily flown out of Robins AFB, Ga., will be used to gather high-quality imagery, broad area shots, which will eliminate the need to patch together smaller images gathered by other intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets currently operating in the Haiti.

"The capabilities of the U-2, with the optical bar camera provide superior imagery that is unsurpassed in many of the reconnaissance platforms flying today," said Maj. Lans Courtney from the 99th Reconnaissance Squadron. "It's also going to fill in the pieces that were not found earlier by other platforms."

The images provided by the U-2 will give decision makers on the ground a broad picture when deciding on how to get help to those who need it the most.

"Some of the imagery we will be providing will be able to show them what roads will be usable so that they can find what areas are accessible on the ground via vehicles," Major Courtney said. "Also, they will be able to prioritize to see what type of areas have been hit the hardest and hopefully this will expedite how quickly they can get in and out of the worst areas in Haiti."

Routinely flown at altitudes nearing 70,000 feet, the U-2 is a single-seat, single-engine, high-altitude, ISR aircraft, which provides signals, imagery and electronic measurements and signature intelligence. The U-2 is capable of gathering a variety of imagery which can be stored or sent to ground exploitation centers.

"Having the pilot in the cockpit of the U-2 provides some capabilities that might not be available in other platforms, one of which being able to flex the mission on the fly," the major said. For instance, if there are individuals on the ground that we can talk to real time that request imagery that is time-critical or time-sensitive, we might be able to accommodate those requests immediately and provide imagery as quickly as possible."

Major Courtney emphasized the mission is not solely about the U-2 pilot.

"I think its key and important that a lot of different individuals from Beale have all come together to support the humanitarian efforts in Haiti, to include the maintenance group, the intelligence squadrons as well as all the support assets and individuals that went to Georgia in preparation for the arrival of the U-2 and subsequent humanitarian missions over Haiti," he said.

SHARES - State of the Union/Rolling Thunder

Courtesy of GrayGhost and the MARS 4H2B Net (MT-63).

SUBJ: PRESIDNETIAL STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS

1. SHARES REGIONAL OPERATIONS FOR SUPPORT OF STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS, REGIONS II, III, IV AND VI 0100ZULU.

2. SCN LEVEL TWO CONTINUES FOR REGIONAL MONITORING OF ROLLING THUNDER.

3. SCN CHANNELS ONE, THREE, FOUR AND SIX AUTHORIZED TO GUARD AND MONITOR. SHARES ALE CHANNELS AND CHANNELS THIRTEEN OPERATIONAL.

4. IMMEDIATE TRAFFIC MAY BE SUMBITTED VIA NCS@DHS.GOV.

5. BRAVO ZULU TO ALL FOR CONTINUED SUPPORT AND OPERATIONS.

6. ACTUAL EVENT

BT

NNNN

High-Speed Ferry Ships to Support Haiti Relief

By Adrian Schulte, Military Sealift Command Public Affairs

NORFLOK, Va. (NNS) -- High-speed ferry ships MV Huakai and MV Alakai are preparing to sail to Haiti in support of Operation Unified Response to provide disaster relief following the Jan. 12 earthquake.

Huakai and Alakai were originally built to serve as passenger and vehicle ferries in Hawaii but were turned over to the Maritime Administration's custody when the ferry service went bankrupt.

The ships will be under operational control of the Military Sealift Command (MSC) during Operation Unified Response.

The ships' main tasks will be to transfer equipment and personnel in the region. They are configured for the mission to each hold 450 tons of cargo and 500 passengers and can travel at a sustained speed of 33 knots.

Huakai loaded a rapid port opening package, communications gear, fork lifts, trucks, Humvees, supplies and other equipment at Fort Eustis, Va., Jan. 27. Huakai will also carry personnel from the 689th Rapid Port Opening Element, MSC's Expeditionary Port Unit Detachment and elements from the Army's 7th Sustainment Brigade. Huakai got underway Jan. 27 and is scheduled to arrive in Haiti Jan. 29.

Alakai is currently in Norfolk, Va., and is scheduled to get underway for Haiti in the next several days.

Huakai and Alakai are two of 12 ships under MSC control mobilized to date in support of humanitarian relief efforts in Haiti. These ships include hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20), fleet replenishment oiler USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198), rescue and salvage ship USNS Grasp (T-ARS 51), oceanographic survey ship USNS Henson (T-AGS 63), maritime prepositioning ships USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus (T-AK 3011) and USNS Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams (T-AK-3009) and dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Sacagawea (T-AKE 2). In addition, three ships have been activated from the Maritime Administration's Ready Reserve Force to assist with the effort. When activated, these ships will fall under operational control of MSC.

MSC operates approximately 110 noncombatant, merchant mariner-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships, conduct specialized missions, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world and move military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners.

Navy Ships Provide Critical Resources in Haiti

By Iam Graham, American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON (NNS) -- The Navy continues to play a major role in the Defense Department's efforts to help the people of Haiti, a senior naval officer said Jan. 27.

The Navy is providing hospital ships and off-shore sea bases of operation for Marine Corps units working on the ground, and is carrying millions of pounds of food, medical equipment and other supplies to help the Haitian people recover from the Jan. 12 earthquake that devastated the island nation, Navy Rear Adm. Ted N. Branch, commander of Carrier Strike Group 1 aboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), told participants in a "DoDLive" blogger's roundtable.

The Navy is a small part of a broad international effort in Haiti, working in conjunction with dozens of non-governmental organizations, international groups and the Haitian government itself, Branch said. Because some of those organizations have worked in Haiti for years on other humanitarian missions, he added, they are familiar with local customs.

"What we're striving to do, and being able to do in many cases, is partner with [other organizations] and let them tell us the best places for relief distribution, the best contacts we need to make in the local community and local government and use their experience to our best advantage," Branch said. "We get them into the process and we keep them in the process [of providing aid and supplies]."

Fostering relationships among the sailors, Marines, civilian aid workers and Haitian population is central to the relief effort, Branch said. Creating an environment the Haitians can uphold when no more aid is needed is one of the primary goals for the Navy and for the operation as a whole, the admiral said.

"Obviously, we're working here as an international team – we're working through the [United Nations] and through the government of Haiti," Branch said. "The objective is to make sure the Haitian people are able to sustain, and the organizations that are helping them in that effort are fully in the mix, and in the lead, as we go forward."

So far, Branch's strike group has performed 1,979 flights, nearly 1,600 of which were mission-related operations, delivering personnel and supplies. Medical evacuations made up 375 of the sorties.

These flights made up "the bulk of the vertical lift used" in the Navy's effort, he said.

Branch said the Navy as a whole has brought more than a million pounds of cargo to Haiti, including 87,000 gallons of water, nearly 162 tons of food, 345,400 pounds of medical supplies, 75 tons of support equipment and 3,300 people to help in relief efforts.

Branch's group - which consists of 12 ships deployed to Haiti, including the Carl Vinson Strike Group ships, the USS Nassau (LHA 4) and USS Bataan (LHD 5) Amphibious Ready Groups and the hospital ship USNS Comfort (T-AH 20) - is expecting a lengthy deployment. While no estimates have been given regarding the duration of operations in Haiti, it's been made clear by many officials that Operation Unified Response Haiti won't be a quick turnaround.

As long as they're needed, Branch said, his ships will stay there to help.

"We'll continue performing the missions and supporting the functions we've done since we arrived," he said. "In the 12 days we've been here, we've seen a lot of improvement, and we're still making a difference. Today is better than yesterday, and tomorrow will be better than today."

VAW 125 Provides Support for Operation Unified Response

Sailors assigned to the Tigertails of Carrier Early Warning (VAW) 125 prepare an E-2C Hawkeye for take off at the airfied at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay. VAW-125 is supporting Operation Unified Response by transporting humanitarian assistance and personnel to Haiti after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake near Port-au-Prince on Jan. 12, 2010. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Baltz/Released)

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Zachary Harris

GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba (NNS) -- The "Tiger Tails" of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125 are conducting airspace management during Operation Unified Response operating out of U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Jan. 22.

VAW 125 is working to ensure airspace and mission safety over Port-au-Prince.

U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay holds a strategic location near Haiti and allows the VAW to conduct critical airspace management during the humanitarian assistance efforts in Haiti. Food, personnel and medical supplies arrive daily and the airspace over Haiti is crowded with aircraft from various agencies.

The crew of VAW-125 provides an information conduit for aircraft operating over Haiti, making the orchestration of humanitarian assistance more manageable.
"We maximize the efficiency of the efforts," said Cmdr. Wesley Bannister, commanding officer, VAW-125.

The squadron operates the E-2C Hawkeye, an aircraft designed for all-weather, carrier-based tactical battle management and airborne early warning. The Hawkeye acts as a communication link to provide the big picture of what's happening in the air and on the ground.
"The aircraft was designed to go up and provide the eyes and ears in the sky," said Lt. Cmdr. Kenyon Kellogg, VAW-125 personnel officer.

According to Bannister, the E-2C and its crew help maintain control of U.S. Navy helicopters moving relief supplies, including medicine and personnel. They also coordinate with personnel on the ground and aboard the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) to direct air asset tasking.

Within 96 hours of being activated, the crew of VAW-125 had gone from their homeport in Norfolk, Va., to fully operational over Haiti, providing command and control of airborne assets as well as those on the ground. Bannister believes the entire effort has been a positive and successful undertaking.

"We have a long history with Haiti," he said. "We should do everything we can to help."

Predator team deploys to support Haiti relief efforts

by Staff Sgt. Alice Moore, 432nd Wing Public Affairs

CREECH AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFNS) - Approximately 50 Airmen from the 432nd Wing here, along with RQ-1 Predator assets, deployed Jan. 22 to assist 12th Air Force and Air Forces Southern officials with providing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts in Haiti.

"The Hunters of the 432nd were called upon to provide a vital ISR capability to assist the people of Haiti," said Col. Pete Gersten, 432nd Wing and 432nd Air Expeditionary Wing commander. "We always stand ready at a moment's notice to carry out the mission at hand. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Haitian people and all those affected by this devastating earthquake."

The RQ-1 Predator is a medium-altitude, long-endurance, remotely piloted aircraft.

In addition to providing support to relief operations in Haiti, Airmen in the 432nd Wg and 432nd AEW continue to support overseas contingency operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

"We save lives each and every day," Colonel Gersten said. "Our no-fail 24/7 combat operations downrange will still continue as we must support the joint warfighter. However, we remain committed to providing assistance to Haiti."

Venezuela Naval Haitian EQ Support

Ron up in MD says that the Venezuelan Navy Haiti relief operation is entitled " Haiti Solidarity 2010." From DTM msgs it appears that a Venezuelan Naval vessel using ALE callsign 4T8S is now or slated to be in the Dominican Republic port of Barahona on a Haitian relief mission. He says that research and recent traffic indicates that the Venezuelan Navy Capana-class LST "Esequibo" T-62 may be the vessel on the Haitian Relief mission in Barahona, Dominican Republic. Recent Ven Navy activity has been spotted on the following (thanks to Jim, Ron and Tom):

6265.0 ESEQUIBO: Venezuelan Navy (ARBV) Capana-class Medium Landing Ship "Esequibo (T-62)" 0015 ALE/LSB to CAPANA (Vessel "Capana (T-61)") w/LQA.

6850.0 6QA8: Venezuelan Navy (ARBV) Capana-class Medium Landing Ship "Esequibo (T-62)" 2227 ALE/LSB to T5L1 (BNAR Puerto Cabello) w/LQA

6888.0 USB/ALE "CAP TIS ESEQUIBO" ESEQUIBO: Venezuelan Navy Capana-class Medium Landing Ship "Esequibo (T-62)" and "CAP" is complete "CAPANA", the "Capana (T-61)"

8280.0 ESEQUIBO (Venezuelan Navy Capana-class Medium Landing Ship "ARBV Esequibo" (T-62): 0045 LSB/ALE calling CAPANA (Venezuelan Navy Capana-class Medium Landing Ship " Capana", T-61).

8280.0 F21 (Venezuelan Navy Frigate "Mariscal Sucre" F-21): 0500 LSB/ALE calling CGA1 (HQs Venezuelan Navy).

8280.0 T8R1 (HQs Venezuelan Navy): 0530 LSB/ALE calling 4T8S (unid, Venezuelan Navy).

8280.0 2TB9 (Venezuelan Navy LSM "Goijaira" T-63): 0600 LSB/ALE calling T5L1 (CEDEF-Commander, Frigate Squadron) & 1EW1 (Naval Base "Amario").

8280.0 1F5G (Venezuelan Navy Base "Amario"): 0800 LSB/ALE T8R1 (HQs Venezuelan Navy).

8340.0 CGA (HQs Venezuelan Navy): 2147 LSB/ALE calling T623 (Venezuelan Navy Capana-class Medium Landing Ship "Esequibo" T-62).

8340.0 T8R1 (HQs Venezuelan Navy): 1230 USB/ALE calling 4T8S (Venezuelan Navy LST/Capana class Esequibo" T-62).

8340.0 5JL1 (Venezuelan Navy Frigate "Mariscal Sucre" F-21): 2109 LSB/ALE calling T5L1 (CEDEF-Commander, Frigate Squadron).

8340.0 F21 (Venezuelan Navy Frigate "Mariscal Sucre" F-21): 2115 LSB/ALE calling CGA2 (HQs Venezuelan Navy).

8340.0 T8R1 (HQs Venezuelan Navy): 2156 LSB/ALE calling 1F5G (Venezuelan Navy Base "Amario").

Our super Digital Digest columnist at Monitoring Times, Mike Chace passed along the following on the Ven Navy:

"I spent a long time on trying to decipher the addresses. I have a few confirmed but the process is complicated by frequent use of relaying (with no way to distinguish which station is relaying) and the fact that some addresses appear to be collective addresses for small flotillas of ships. I have the following:"

1C3Z F-24 Frigate General Soublette
1EW1 Base Agustin Armario (BNAR)
1XV7 T-61 Capana
1Z8C BO-11 Punta Brava?
2TB9 T-63 Goajira
3KF4 ESGAS
4LA3 EPGZ07, PG407 Fardela
6QA8 T-62 Esequibo
7P4S Tunes
7RC4 CGT 23.4 (F21, F24, T62)
8DV9 T-64 Los Llanos
LSH3 PG7
T5L1 BNAR CEDCOMEBA
T8R1 CGA HQ CARACAS

The Venezuelan Navy ships sent to Haiti have been very busy with long MIL-188-110A
messages on 5840 kHz USB. Synchronous 8bit setting will show the headers and email addresses of the stations involved.

NAVSO/C4F Visits Big Horn Prior to Haiti Deployment

The Military Sealift Command fleet replenishment oiler USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198) prepares for an underway replenishment to sustain the amphibious dock landing ship USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) for an extended period of time off the coast of Haiti. Carter Hall is en route to Haiti as part of Operation Unified Response, a joint operation providing humanitarian aid in Haiti following a 7.0 magnitude earthquake, which devastated the island nation on Jan. 12, 2010. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Monique K. Hilley/Released)

MAYPORT, Fla. (NNS) -- The commander of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (NAVSO) and U.S. Fourth Fleet (C4F) visited the crew of USNS Big Horn (T-AO 198) Jan. 24, prior to their deployment in support of Operation Unified Response.

During his visit, Rear Adm. Victor G. Guillory spoke with members of the wardroom.

"I'm glad to tell you that since the last time you were down there a few days ago things have cautiously improved," said Guillory. "We're going to help mitigate the suffering of well over one hundred thousand people. You represent the critical link to make it all possible. We don't have a sea base without you. On behalf of thousands of people who don't get the chance, I want to thank you and wish you the best with your mission."

Big Horn is a fleet replenishment oiler that pulled into Naval Station Mayport to refuel and on load food, water and other supplies in support of the Haiti disaster relief. The crew is made up of six U.S. Navy Sailors, and 73 civilian mariners under direction of Military Sealift Command.

"We have 79 crew members total," said Capt. Thomas J. Finger, master, USNS Big Horn. "Out of this group [of officers], everybody made the last deployment. So there is a lot of continuity, corporate history and professional skill within the crew."

As the Navy component command of U.S. Southern Command, NAVSO's mission is to direct U.S. Naval forces operating in the Caribbean, Central and South American regions and interact with partner nation navies within the maritime environment. In support of Operation Unified Response, C4F is tasked to coordinate the U.S. Navy's response to disaster relief in Haiti following a 7.0 magnitude earthquake Jan. 12. The focus of Operation Unified Response is to alleviate the suffering of survivors and support humanitarian relief efforts.

Bataan LCACs Land Ashore to Bring More Relief in Haiti

A landing craft air cushion (LCAC) assigned to Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4 exits the well deck of the multi-purpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) while transporting equipment and personnel off the coast of Haiti. Bataan, along with amphibious dock landing ships USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43), USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) and USS Carter Hall (LSD 50), are participating in Operation Unified Response and are providing military support capabilities to civil authorities to help stabilize and improve the situation in Haiti in the wake of the 7.0 magnitude earthquake on Jan. 12, 2010. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Kristopher Wilson/Released)

GRAND GOAVE, Haiti (NNS) -- Assault Craft Unit (ACU) 4 Air Cushioned Landing Crafts (LCAC) left the well deck of multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) and arrived on the beaches of Haiti Jan. 22.

They brought 24 vehicles ashore for the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) to carry relief supplies.

Opening the beach and bringing in vehicles to navigate the inferior roads has relief flowing by air, land and sea.

"The efforts of the Bataan Amphibious Relief Mission are an awesome display of the Navy-Marine Corps team bringing relief to those in need," said Capt. Thomas Negus, commodore, USS Bataan Amphibious Relief Mission. "It is truly a 'Global Force for good.'"

The landing craft moved eight Light Armor Vehicles (LAV) and 16 High-Mobility Multi-Purpose Wheeled Vehicles in seven trips by three LCACs.
With today's landing, ACU-4 is ready to continue to offload the 22nd MEU's personnel and equipment.

"Right now we are standing by to offload the rest of the MEU and their equipment. It's a process with a lot of moving parts, but now that (LCACs) are able to help, it should go a bit faster." said Klimko.

Due to the LCAC's ability to carry large amount of personnel, supplies, and vehicles, the landing craft's debut was a welcome addition to the relief effort.

"We're glad to get in there," said Klimko. "A lot of good work has been done on the air side, but we're glad to finally be using the landing side's equipment and personnel."

Amphibious Relief Mission ships Bataan, USS Fort McHenry (LSD 43), USS Carter Hall (LSD 50) and USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44) are deployed to provide military support capabilities to civil authorities and to help stabilize and improve the situation in the wake of this disaster.

Milcom Blog Logs - 22 Jan 2010 - Spacecoast

One of our regular reporters to the MMP pasted along these intercepts (many related to the Haiti relief effort) from his Spacecoast listening post. Thanks M.

Recorded logs from 0415 to 2130 EST. Noticed since yesterday (Thursday) some unusual P-3 callsigns, adding 2 letters at the end of the callsign. Haiti related traffic is bolded.

138.950 Homestead ARB KINGFISH KILO (TALCE)
CG 1720 inbound call (HC-130H, CGAS Clearwater)
REACH 161A inbound, 10 pax, 25k fuel

264.200 Jax NAS VP-8 / VP-16 Base
591 with EAGLE BASE, inbound (161591, P-3C)
564 with WAR EAGLE BASE, inbound (158564, P-3C)

290.625 Eglin Metro
REACH 1043 request update for HRT, Hurlburt Field

306.000 Jax NAS VP-30
16 with 04 on Base, discussing weather and deconfliction
91 with 24 on Base, air-air

310.200 Jax NAS Base Ops
CONVOY 3642 inbound (2 missions, 2nd flight request offload before CONVOY 3850 for return to Getmo)
REACH 805D

311.000 MacDill AFB Lightning Ops
REACH 2103, requesting phone patch to home station 493-7301 (Maxwell AFB)
____ 62 inbound
CLEAN 31 inbound
QUID 30 reporting airborne 2324z (KC-135, 351st ARS)
REACH 805D inbound
ETHYL 89 inbound, divert due to fog (KC-135, 171st ARW)
REACH 111A inbound, request update on field closure for fog; mention divert to Kelly AFB

319.400 AMC Common
Unid air-air (0424 hrs) and another pair at 0538 discussing weather

321.000

340.200 Jax NAS Tower
CONVOY 4692 inbound, local wx check

344.600 Metro
REACH 121A calling CHARLESTON METRO
LIMA FOXTROT 16 BRAVO BRAVO P-3C, VP-16), request en-route wx to Navy Jax
ETHYL 89 with MACDILL METRO, diverting due to fog, looking for local divert fields,
long discussion attempting to find local fields, mention of being sent to Langley AFB.

345.000 Coast Guard
CG 1504 (HC-130H, CGAS Clearwater) with CLEARWATER AIR

349.400 Charleston AFB Palmetto Ops
REACH 122A inbound
REACH 899 inbound
REACH 144A inbound
REACH 3113
REACH 805D inbound, 37 pax
ETHYL 89, present position to Langley AFB

361.300 Jax NAS VR-58 / VR-62
CONVOY 3642 with NOMAD BASE, inbound

372.200 PTD
ASCOT 5568 (C-130?) calling MACDILL OPS, no reply
REACH 805D calling MACDILL BASE OPS, no reply

Orlando-Sanford FLA Airport Conducting Haiti Earthquake Relief Ops?

One of our regular contributors to this blog may have found another Florida airport contributing to the Haiti earthquake effort.

He found a frequency possibly in use as the Orlando-Sanford Airport TALCE freq.

129.075 Orlando-Sanford Airport Ops "SANFORD OPS" (also their company freq)

Freq was passed by Sanford tower to REACH 139A who was inbound looking for a contact freq. Have heard various REACH flights looking for the same thing since Sunday, so not positive this is the correct freq, if there is one.

REACH 139A self ID C-17, inbound 52 pax, 10 media, 9 crew. After landing tower advising 139A to do a ERO so aircraft can be repositioned due to parking issues.

Also had THOMPSON 805 with an in range call to SANFORD OPS.

As always more reports are always appreciated.