By Michelle Bliss
08-17-10 – Marines based in Camp Lejeune will deploy to Pakistan this month to offer relief to flood victims.
The 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit is sending 125 service members to deliver food, water, and materials for building shelters to victims displaced by persistent flooding in Pakistan.
Captain Richard Ulsh says the marines have finished their pre-deployment training, but nothing will prepare them for the emotional toll of crisis relief.
"It's one thing to say, You're going in to help these people.' It's another thing to actually get on the ground and be right next to them, holding their hands, cuddling a child who is affected by this disaster."
At least 12 million Pakistani people have been affected by flooding and at least 1,600 have died.
Learn more by visiting the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit.