C-17s supports Pakistan relief Published Sept. 13, 2010 By Tech Sgt. Elicia Summervillle Defense Media Activity - Hawaii ISLAMABAD, Pakistan -- The U.S. government is committed to the welfare of the people of Pakistan and will continue to provide assistances during their period of terrible suffering. The 535th Airlift Squadron aircrew from Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam is lending a helping hand. This short notice tasking to Pakistan, is like many others the 535th AS from Hawaii picks-up. As the aircrew lands at the Islambad International Airport, they understand the importance of the role they are playing. "You and your airplane can bring aide that will effect millions of people," said Capt. Joe Aubert, 535th AS C-17 pilot. " Captain Aubert is on the most important humanitarian mission of his career. "The Chinook that we brought, will bring immediate aide to people in remote areas that are unreachable by any other means." Private 1st Class Antonio Rucci is one of nearly two dozen Army troops flying halfway around the globe bringing relief to millions of Pakistanis affected by the flooding. Flooding that has swamped as much as one-fifth of the country. "It's a sad thing," said Private Rucci. "I understand people are missing their home, losing their families. Us being there is an awesome asset. We are going to pick people up, give them supplies, provide for them and help them. Whatever they need, we are going to be there for them" It's a mission that won't end soon. The devastation and its after-effects will affect the country for years, but for now the relief provided by these servicemembers will provide hope in the face of what is going to be a long recovery. NOTE: The story is based on the multimedia script for a video created by Tech. Sgt. Elicia Summerville. For the full video story, click here.