April 24, 2001PS 01-03
Contact: Peter West (703) 292-8070
Statement byDR. KARL ERBDIRECTOR, OFFICE OF POLAR PROGRAMSNATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
On Medevac Assistance from the Royal New Zealand Air Force
I wish to express the gratitude of the United States to the men and women of the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) who recently returned from an evacuation flight to McMurdo Station, Antarctica.
Coping with the harsh conditions in Antarctica insures that no flight to the continent is ever "routine." But with exacting skill, this aircrew bridged the 2000-mile gap between their country and the Antarctic continent at a very difficult time of year to bring several Americans safely home.
We in the U.S. Antarctic Program, and more particularly, the families of those whose medical needs required a level of care greater than that available at McMurdo Station, very much appreciate the efforts made on our behalf. Through a formal agreement, the RNZAF provides a portion of the logistical support for the USAP during the research season. The timely actions of the RNZAF in this situation are in the best humanitarian traditions of Antarctic exploration and serve to further strengthen the bonds between our nations.
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