Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Lassen (DDG 82) moored at Laem Chabang, Thailand Nov. 16, to provide flood relief assistance at the National Blood Center at the Thai Red Cross Central Distribution Center in Bangkok.
Approximately 40 Sailors helped load more than 6,000 supplies onto trucks that would be distributed throughout the areas affected by the floods.
The supplies donated to the Thai Red Cross Society were from various local and international communities and organizations
Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 2nd Class Casey Brown said volunteering for the event was only natural, considering the U.S. and Thailand frequently work together during exercises such as Cobra Gold.
“I think us being here shows our support for the government and people of Thailand,” he said. “We’re always willing to help when it’s needed.”
Fire Controlman 1st Class Justin Baudier said he could relate to the pain the flood victims are going through, as a native of New Orleans, he understands the struggles the victims were enduring.
“It can take a long time to recover from something like this,” he said. “That’s the main reason I decided to volunteer today.”
In addition to helping with supplies, a few Sailors decided to take volunteering a step further by donating blood during a blood drive.
Sonar Technician (Surface) 2nd Class Joseph Johnson said although he had never donated blood before, he volunteered to do it because it was the right thing.
“People need it,” he said. “It’s all about answering the call of duty in their time of need.”
Several workers at the center, including the assistant head nurse for the Red Cross, Wallapa Suksirimuch, said they were thankful for all the help the Sailors provided.
“We appreciate all their hard work today,” she said. “ Many blessings to them.”
Lassen Command Master Chief Jason Haka told Sailors he was proud of the hard work and long hours they provided during the event.
“Herculean job,” he said. “Great work. Great work.”
The U.S. Pacific Command continues to monitor the flooding in Thailand and is working closely with the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok, USAID, and the Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance to determine if and how it can best support the government of Thailand and its people.
Lassen is assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15 and is currently participating in disaster relief efforts in Thailand.
[mappress] Naval Today Staff, November 23, 2011;