26th MEU deploys in support of Hurricane Sandy disaster relief

Photo By Sgt. Kyle N. Runnels | Gunnery Sgt. Walter K. Saucier, a logistics chief with Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron (VMM) 266 Reinforced, from Grapeland, Texas, prepares containers to be transported with Marines and sailors of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit, which deployed aboard the USS Wasp (LHD-1) Nov. 1, 2012, in support of Hurricane Sandy disaster relief efforts in New York and New Jersey. The 26th MEU is able to provide generators, fuel, clean water, and helicopter lift capabilities to aid in disaster relief efforts. The 26th MEU is currently conducting pre-deployment training, preparing for their departure in 2013. As an expeditionary crisis response force operating from the sea, the MEU is a Marine Air-Ground Task Force capable of conducting amphibious operations, crisis response, and limited contingency operations.  

CAMP LEJEUNE, NC, UNITED STATES

11.01.2012

Story by Capt. Lucas Burke 

26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable)     

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - Marines and sailors with the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit deployed aboard the USS Wasp (LHD-1) on November 1 in support of Hurricane Sandy disaster relief efforts in New York and New Jersey.

The 26th MEU is able to provide generators, fuel, clean water, and helicopter lift capabilities to aid in disaster relief efforts.

“First and foremost, our thoughts and prayers go out to those impacted by Hurricane Sandy. The capabilities of the 26th MEU are augmenting the larger relief efforts currently being executed at the federal, state and local level. The Marines and sailors of the MEU are extremely motivated about assisting other Americans in a time of need. This deployment demonstrates the responsiveness of a MEU in support of a crises and the expeditionary nature of the Navy-Marine Corps Team,” said Col. Matthew G. St. Clair, commanding officer of the 26th MEU.

The 26th MEU is currently conducting pre-deployment training, preparing for their departure in 2013. As an expeditionary crisis response force operating from the sea, the MEU is a Marine Air-Ground Task Force capable of conducting amphibious operations, crisis response, and limited contingency operations.

• Date Taken: 11.01.2012
• Date Posted: 11.01.2012 13:10
• Story ID: 97129
• Location: CAMP LEJEUNE, NC, US