Airmen continue Lebanon transport support

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Matthew Rosine
  • Air Force Print News
SAN ANTONIO (AFPN) --  A general medical team from U.S. Air Forces Europe departed Ramstein Air Base, Germany, today to support Lebanon transportation operations.

The team, comprised of more than a dozen medical professionals, was sent to fulfill a request by the U.S. Embassy in Nicosia, Cyprus.

These Airmen, their supplies and equipment, along with other USAFE units, are supporting U.S. Central Command's operations in the area, said Maj. Pamela Cook, a U.S. European Command spokesperson.

These Airmen are the newest additions to the Air Force's support in the region. The Air Force has contributed C-17 Globemaster IIIs, MH-53 Pave Low helicopters, C-130 Hercules and other Air Force aircraft to the Mediterranean operation.

While Airmen and aircraft are doing their part to help, these Air Force assets are not going into Lebanon. Instead they are supporting operations from "joint-use bases" in the region, said Maj. Lisa Neidinger, 16th Air Force Public Affairs.

So far the regional operation is succeeding, Air Force officials said.

According to the State Department, approximately 1,600 American citizens have been transported out of Lebanon since July 16. More than 1,200 Americans were transported to Cyprus July 19.

Currently more than 80 Airmen are supporting the operation. They join other U.S. military forces, such as the Navy's aircraft carrier Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group and elements of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit.

U.S. Central Command is directing all movement operations in the region.