Good on DynCorp and Mr. Gaffney for donating this money to the relief effort. This is the kind of stuff that not only makes the Pakistani Taliban bite their lip, but also puts a shot across the bow of today’s critics of the industry. Maybe some more companies will follow their lead and donate as well?
Now I have no idea if DynCorp will be called upon to drop supplies or anything. In this particular disaster response, security would be a huge issue, and PMC’s like this company are ideally suited to not only deliver supplies but provide their own protection. Using a PMC would also free up vital military aviation units for the war in Afghanistan.
Although I kind of doubt Pakistan would be alright with DynCorp or any other company doing such a thing, just because getting life saving aid from one of those evil contractors is just too repulsive for the suffering muslims of Pakistan to handle. pfffft. –Matt
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DynCorp International Supports Pakistan Relief Efforts
September 02, 2010
DynCorp International today announced that it will donate $10,000 to the American Red Cross to support the people of Pakistan in the aftermath of the worst flooding the country has seen in more than 80 years.
“Right now families in Pakistan are in need of shelter, health services and supplies. We hope our contribution provides them some comfort in such a difficult time.”
The donation will fund relief supplies, mobilize relief workers and provide additional financial resources to the overall relief effort. The American Red Cross is working with its partners in the global Red Cross and Red Crescent network, including the Pakistan Red Crescent Society, to reach those in need.
“As a company that operates globally, it is our responsibility to assist globally,” said Steve Gaffney, DynCorp International president and chief executive officer. “Right now families in Pakistan are in need of shelter, health services and supplies. We hope our contribution provides them some comfort in such a difficult time.”
The global Red Cross and Red Crescent network announced last week that it is quadrupling its emergency activities in Pakistan. The Government of Pakistan Provincial and National Disaster Management Authorities have raised the number of flood-affected people to nearly 17.6 million, including approximately 10 million in need of humanitarian assistance.
DynCorp International’s commitment to the Red Cross follows the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance’s (OFDA) own significant contribution to the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. USAID/OFDA has advised that the most effective way to assist relief efforts is through contributions to humanitarian organizations that are conducting relief operations. The needs in Pakistan will continue to be significant and DynCorp International encourages those interested in donating to support efforts to help the people of Pakistan to visit www.redcross.org.
Story here.