Last flights from Japan land at Travis Air Force Base
More than 5,000 voluntarily evacuees left Japan for the United States after a 9.0 earthquake rocked the country. The massive earthquake was followed by a devastating tsunami that rattled nuclear energy plants, putting residents in jeopardy of radiation exposure.
Travis Air Force Base alone received 2,500 evacuees with pets and belongings in tow, who were greeted by 400 volunteers from the base, according to 2nd Lt. Joel Banjo-Johnson, deputy chief of public affairs.
The voluntary evacuees left Japan to assist in expediting recovery efforts in Japan by reducing the demand for food, water, fuel and electricity during the national emergency, according to a press release.
Solano County Supervisor Mike Reagan said it was an awesome sight to see the reception the evacuated guests received after the chartered commercial jets landed at the base.
"I'm very impressed and I'm really proud of them," he said of the military troops. "It's the finest example of the (Department of Defense) taking care of its extended family and the community."
Reagan said base personnel voluntarily worked 15 to 16 hours days and continued to maintain smiles on their faces.
Translators, veterinarians, radiation screening, travel assistance and school enrollment were all on hand while the base continued doing its normal business.
"I'm still stoked about what I saw," he said. "It was awesome."