The following is the October 14 update on Joint Task Force-Matthew support to relief efforts in Haiti:
•As of Oct. 14, Joint Task Force-Matthew helicopters have delivered more than 426,000 pounds (193 metric tons) of relief commodities (aid and supplies) to areas devastated by Hurricane Matthew.
•The task force helicopters continue to distribute the 480 metric tons of aid donated by USAID as part of the ongoing U.S. disaster assistance to Haiti.
•More than 400 task force personnel are on the ground in Haiti.
•20 aircraft (helicopters and MV22 Ospreys) are assigned to provide airlift support.
•The amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) will begin operations today. USS Mesa Verde -- on station in Haiti since Sunday -- has transferred aircraft, equipment and associated personnel assigned for relief efforts to Iwo Jima. Mesa Verde is slated to depart Haiti today to support other operational commitments. Iwo Jima is one of the largest amphibious ships in the world and brings greater capabilities to the task force.