Flies In Medical, Humanitarian Supplies

Two C-130 crews from the 38th Airlift Squadron at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, flew medical and humanitarian supplies into Vladikavkaz, Russia, Monday -- a humanitarian gesture to the victims of the Beslan school shootings.

The crews dropped off about 36,000 pounds of medical and humanitarian supplies for use by relief agencies in the treatment and support of hundreds of victims of the recent terrorist act in Beslan, Russia.

The Russian government requested assistance after the United States offered support. The officials here said they appreciated the aid.

"I spoke to the Russian interpreter, and he was very thankful that we made the journey over here," said Air Force Lt. Col. Richard L. Galante, 38th Airlift Squadron commander, a reservist out of Youngstown (OH). "I could see some of the other Russian officials were really teary-eyed and really appreciated the support, … that we brought in these medical supplies and other equipment that they need so badly."

"They said it was nice that our countries were in such community with one another, … that we were living like brothers in the midst of tragedy," said Air Force Staff Sgt. Clayton E. Bronnee, a Russian linguist with the 426th Information Operations Squadron. "They said they felt very bad for us when 9/11 happened, and they appreciate our help and support now that this tragedy has befallen them."

The humanitarian supplies included sheets, blankets, medicine, burn kits, bandages and dressings, as well as specialized medical equipment.

(ANN salutes Air Force Master Sgt. Jon Hanson, 435th Air Base Wing Public Affairs Office, USAF)

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