NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — At long last, much-need humanitarian aid has started rolling into Gaza to help more than two million Palestinian civilians in need, following seven months of the Israel-Hamas war.
"To date, over 569 metric tons of humanitarian assistance has been delivered across the temporary pier or JLOTS, for further distribution by humanitarian partners, with more help on the way," said Lieutenant General Pat Ryder, Pentagon spokesman, during a news conference on Tuesday.
The movement of aid was able to happen thanks to the Joint Logistics Over the Shore (JLOTS) 1,800-foot-long causeway built by Fort Eustis-based 7th Transportation Brigade soldiers. It's been called the Trident Pier.
One member of the team is Captain Eric Napier, whose proud wife Kelsey has been watching from afar, back home in Hampton Roads.
"I try not to watch the news too much to see every movement that's going on, because you can see good and bad on both sides," Kelsey said in an interview with 13News Now. "But on the good side of things, he's really doing something wonderful for families that need that help and support."
Kelsey leads the 7th Headquarters and Headquarters Company Soldier Family Readiness Group, with soldiers' spouses supporting each other during this stressful time.
With Eric and his colleagues having been gone from Fort Eustis since March 12th, Kelsey said she can't wait until he comes home.
"I dream of the homecoming each and every day, just knowing how excited we both are to see each other again," she said.
There's been no official word on when the return will be.
The Pentagon has said the JLOTS Trident Pier in Gaza will cost taxpayers $320 million.