UPDATE PHOTO RELEASE: Coast Guard transports fresh water to the island-nation of Tokelau

Editor's note: click on image above for high resolution photos.

PACIFIC OCEAN – The U. S. Coast Guard is supporting New Zealand’s humanitarian relief efforts to assist the residents of the island nation of Tokelau. Approximately 1,500 residents of three islands are receiving approximately 36,000 gallons of drinking water from the crew of the Coast Guard Cutter Walnut.

Currently the residents of Tokelau have approximately seven days of fresh drinking water.

Walnut made a 358-mile transit from American Samoa to Tokelau. This transit took approximately 30 hours.

“The Coast Guard routinely supports the Pacific island countries in this region during search and rescue cases and fisheries patrols,” said Rear Adm. Charles W. Ray, Commander Fourteenth Coast Guard District. “Our existing relationships between Pacific island countries are essential to facilitate rapid response during times of need.”

For more information contact the Fourteenth Coast Guard District public affairs office, at 808-535-3230.

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