MONROVIA, September 23 (LINA) – More than 50 U.S. military personnel, including engineers and airfield specialists, have been brought into the country as part of the advance group of the U.S military team to assist Liberia combat the Ebola virus.
Also, a total of three C-17 U.S. military aircraft have so far flown into Liberia with assorted U.S. military equipment and personnel for the anti-Ebola fight.
The cargo includes heavy duty engineering equipment, medical supplies and other items.
According to a release, the Commander of the 688th Rapid Port Opening Element, Major Matthew Rivera, said his mission at the airport is to ensure supplies and troops are brought in safely for the smooth execution of their operation.
The release said additional large military aircraft transporting more personnel and supplies are expected to arrive in Monrovia in the coming days in fulfillment of the promise made by President Barack Obama in a speech September 16 at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia.
Major General Darryl Williams, in his capacity as Commander of U.S. Army Africa and Operation United Assistance, arrived in Liberia last Tuesday.
During the past week, U.S. Ambassador Deborah Malac and Major General Williams have been meeting with senior Liberian government officials to discuss the stepped up U.S. response to the Ebola crisis.
LINA GDJ/TSS/PTK