Aircraft carrier heading to Philippines on aid mission

Jim Michaels | USA TODAY

WASHINGTON — The Pentagon announced Monday it was sending the aircraft carrier USS George Washington and other Navy ships to the Philippines to assist in recovery efforts.

"The aircraft carrier, which carries 5,000 sailors and more than 80 aircraft, is currently in Hong Kong for a port visit," according to a statement from Pentagon press secretary George Little. "The crew is being recalled early from shore leave and the ship is expected to be underway later this evening."

Other Navy ships will accompany the carrier, which has been ordered to "make best speed" toward the storm ravished region.

The carrier is expected to arrive within two to three days, Little said.

The carrier will be able to provide aircraft, including helicopters, to support relief efforts.

"As needed, these ships and aircraft will be able to provide humanitarian assistance, supplies, and medical care in support of the ongoing efforts led by the government and military of the Republic of the Philippines," Little said.

The U.S. military has already dispatched more than 200 Marines, sailors and other servicemen to the Philippines to assist in recovery efforts.

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