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News | Dec. 4, 2018

Barstow distribution center supplies tents to victims of Super Typhoon Yutu

DLA Distribution Public Affairs

In the wake of Typhoon Yutu, DLA Distribution is once again demonstrating its unwavering commitment to Whole of Government entities such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency. 

To provide relief to those affected by the Category 5-equivalent Super Typhoon which made landfall on the Northern Mariana Islands of Saipan and Tinian October 25, DLA Distribution Barstow is in the process of shipping more than 600 tents to the area.

The strongest tropical cyclone to ever impact the Mariana Islands and the second strongest to strike the United States or its territories as a whole, Typhoon Yutu damaged or destroyed the majority of homes on both islands.

On November 10, DLA Distribution Barstow, California, received a Warning Order to support a request from FEMA, and, although the official order of more than 700 tents did not drop until 10 days later, the distribution center immediately began formulating a plan for support.

According to Barstow deputy commander Matt Balogh, the organization understood and responded to the urgency of the situation.  “Our logistics partners, Technica, were instrumental in pulling and shipping material. They were very responsive to the cause while ensuring tents got out as quickly as the transportation was available, without missing a beat.”

On November 26, the first shipment of tents was transported to Los Angeles International Airport for air delivery to the residents of Saipan.  Approximately 235 16x16 tents arrived on the island two days later for distribution to those affected.

Presently, more than 200 additional tents are at LAX awaiting a November 30 flight with another 325 set to fly within the week.

“FEMA appreciates the quick and efficient delivery of tents from DLA Distribution to Saipan in support of Typhoon Yutu,” said FEMA press secretary Lizzie Litzow. “One lesson we learned from the catastrophic 2017 hurricane season is that no one department or agency can undertake this effort alone. Every phase of emergency management requires the coordination of the whole community and we are thankful for this great partnership.”