Combined support force 536: Operation unified assistance

Abstract

The coordinated and combined use of military and civilian resources in response to large-scale natural disasters have not been frequent or well documented. Historically, the overall efficacy and successes of such endeavors are mixed. The benefits of early decisive military leadership, time-phased implementation of resources, a stratified assistance program, and a working relationship is illustrated during the tragic Asian tsunami disaster of 2004 to 2005. The tasking of III Marine Expeditionary Force and my experience as Joint Task Force Surgeon suggest deliberate civil-military planning is beneficial and can significantly reduce human suffering. © by Association of Military Surgeons of U.S., 2006.