On Monday, two members of Operation: Seabird’s alpha team returned from the Philippines to Los Angeles before catching departing flights home. Tuesday evening, nine more followed. All were welcomed by volunteers and staff who helped support their efforts from afar. One member of the original team that deployed on Nov. 10 is set to return this Friday.
Air Force veteran and Philippines native Lourdes Tiglao and SAR specialist Chris Ryan were received by TR volunteers and staff at LAX.
Elana Duffy, Army, and paramedic and SAR specialist Robert Obernier, Navy, connected with fellow volunteers at the baggage claim.
SAR specialist and certified EMT Brian Brown receives a bear hug from Region 4 programs manager Dee Clancy.
SAR specialist and TR operations training associate Chris Wharton showcases a tired grin.
Operation: Seabird is TR’s largest international mission to-date. Currently, 65 TR volunteers – 59 from the States, five from Norway, and one from the United Kingdom – remain in the cities of Carigara, Tacloban, and Manila conducting assessments, providing medical assistance, and supporting relief distribution operations.