Monday, February 8, 2010

Beachmaster Unit Aboard Bataan Clears the Way for Relief in Haiti

Beachmaster Unit Aboard Bataan Clears the Way for Relief in Haiti: "Beachmaster Unit Two (BMU-2) embarked aboard the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) has been working the beaches of Grand Goave, Haiti, to keep disaster relief supplies packed aboard air cushion landing craft (LCAC) moving between shore and ship and into the hands of the Haitian people who need them most.

BMU-2's mission is to provide tactical components in support of the Bataan Amphibious Relief Mission. They also assist with the evacuation of casualties, and facilitate the movement of troops, equipment and supplies over the beach.

'We transfer a lot of personnel everyday,' said Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Calvin Booker, a member of BMU-2. He said the Beachmasters bring out Navy volunteers working at a local missionary, along with food, water and supplies to continue supporting the people of Haiti and non-governmental organizations in the relief effort.

A Beach Party Team consists of traffic control and salvage, and communications units."