Navy Moves to Rescue Hurricane Irma Survivors

U.S. Northern Command on Thursday confirmed that it is now supporting FEMA’s rescue efforts in the wake of Hurricane Irma. In a statement, NORTHCOM said that the USS Wasp (LHD-1) had arrived in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and that the amphibious assault ship’s helicopters will conduct medical evacuations and damage assessment. “The amphibious assault ships USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) and dock landing ship USS Oak Hill (LSD 51) along with the Marines of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit are also en route to the area,” the statement read. “These ships are capable of providing medical support, maritime civil affairs, maritime security, expeditionary logistic support, medium and heavy lift air support, and bring a diverse capability including assessment, security, route clearance and water purification.”