Pakistani Airmen personalize global thanks for support

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Chuck Roberts
  • U.S. Air Forces in Europe Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE FAIRFORD, England (AFPN) --  Although there were about 300 military and civilian aircraft from around the world on display at the Royal International Air Tattoo held July 15 to 16 at Royal Air Force Fairford, England, none compared with the artful presentation of the Pakistan Air Force C-130.

In addition to vivid scenes of earthquake relief painted on its tail fin, a banner draped over the fuselage displayed its message: "We are grateful for the global support."

It was presented before a crowd of approximately 150,000 visitors. But members of the Pakistan Air Force were more than happy to give personal thanks to a leader of one of the key nations to assist in the 2005 earthquake relief effort in Pakistan.

While attending the air show here, Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne stopped by the colorfully adorned C-130 to meet its crew of grateful aviators.

His visit was only about 10 minutes, but made a lasting impression.

"We are honored that he has visited so that we can say ‘thank you' for services rendered during the earthquake relief," said Wing Cmdr. Haseeb Gul. "This speaks of how our friendship is progressing day by day."

The flags of numerous nations were also displayed on the Pakistan C-130 that saw duty during the relief effort. It was a global effort, but the U.S. was the first nation to respond during the critical early phase of the disaster response, Commander Gul said.

"The U.S. support was so timely -- it helped saved lives," he said of the 7.6 magnitude quake that killed 73,338 and caused more than $5 billion in damage.

The U.S. response consisted of more than 2,000 people along with dozens of helicopters, field hospitals and thousands of tons of relief supplies and equipment.

U.S. Air Force support included C-130 Hercules airdrop missions from Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, where Soldiers and Airmen assembled 14 pallets of approximately 20,000 pounds of food, blankets and supplies for the initial airdrop.

And at Incirlik AB, Turkey, Airmen played host to an array of international aircraft and provided around-the-clock support during the relief operation.