Nine Airmen from Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras, deployed here as part of a Joint Task Force-Bravo team supporting Hurricane Stan relief operations in this Central American country.

The hurricane, which hit the country Oct. 4, caused massive flooding and land slides and displaced thousands of people. The storm claimed more than 1,000 lives and 3,000 people are believed missing.

The JTF-Bravo contingent is based at Guatemala City international airport and began flying relief and rescue missions Oct. 7. Since then, its troops have delivered more than 425,000 pounds of food, medical supplies and equipment.

“It’s important to let our neighbors in Guatemala know they can count on the United States to help in times of crisis,” said Army Col. Ned Woolfolk, the JTF-Bravo commander.

The colonel said the more than 100-person joint task force team will continue to provide the assistance the country needs to rebuild its infrastructure and return to a state of normalcy

“We’re extremely proud of the great job the Guatemalans are doing in their relief and rebuilding effort,” he said.

JTF-Bravo deployed nine helicopters from the 228th Aviation Regiment to conduct search and rescue operations, as well as help transport emergency relief supplies, Guatemalan “first-responders” and medical personnel to affected areas.

“Keeping track of all the moving parts and pieces is definitely a challenge,” said Capt. Bruce Porter. He is responsible for coordinating logistical operations in Guatemala City. “Because of the outstanding cooperation between all of the agencies involved, including our Guatemalan counterparts, we’re really able to provide great relief support here.”

The JTF-Bravo contingent is based out of the Guatemala City international airport and began flying relief and rescue missions Oct. 7.

To date, search and rescue teams have safely evacuated 43 Guatemalans and five American citizens from affected areas. They have also transported more than 230 personnel (to include aid workers, reporters, firefighters and doctors from several countries) around the region.

“This has been a fantastic experience. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever done,” said Spc. Paul Bernard, UH-60 Black Hawk crew chief.

“Just yesterday, we were able to airlift a guy who had a broken shoulder and get him the medical attention he needed,” he said. “It feels really good to know we’re able to help people throughout the world when they need it most.”