MTMC speeds relief cargoes overseas
In the last 14 months, the team has received 156 requests for the shipment of humanitarian aid around the world.
"Knowing this is going out to people in need, we try to process these requests as soon as possible, said Claude Dolberry, a member of the team in the International Customer Service Division.
The 156 requests go all over the world.
Some of the cargoes include: a field hospital and construction equipment to earthquake victims in El Salvador, school and medical supplies to assorted countries in Africa, and surplus to Central America and South America countries.
"I track every one of these issues," said Dolberry. "I watch them from the date the are booked in the Integrated Booking System until they are delivered to consignee."
To facilitate the movements, Dolberry sends out a weekly e-mail report on the status of each shipment. The e-mail coordinates relief efforts with such organizations as U.S. Transportation Command, U.S. Southern Command and the Department of Defense.
Shipments to Africa are some of the most challenging, he said.
"Sometimes you have conflicts or such natural disasters as floods," said Dolberry. "If that occurs, your humanitarian cargoes may be delayed."
Right now, some humanitarian shipments to Romania are stalled because of a change in local customs requirements.
"It is an added workload for me - we have to figure out what to do to move the cargo."
Dolberry works for the One-Time-Only Team led by Fran Staunton.
"Watching the news about earthquakes, floods and other calamities through out the world always grabs your attention," said Staunton. "But, when you actually become a part of the efforts to give some relief to the people of these misfortunate nations has always been a rewarding feeling."
Humanitarian shipments are moving every day, she said.
"Most people aren't aware of these shipments that go all over the world," said Staunton.
Other members of the team include: Evelyn Barbour, Linda Hardaway and Roy Warner. (FROM MILITARY TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT COMMAND PUBLIC AFFAIRS).
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