August 13, 2021
Dalaman, Mugla
On behalf of the American people, and in partnership with the Government of Turkey, the U.S. European Command, and the U.S. Agency for International Development, I am honored to welcome the arrival today of two U.S. CH-47 Chinook helicopters and 18 crew members at Dalaman Airport in Mugla, Turkey. The CH-47 Chinook helicopters can haul up to 7,500 liters of water per load using “Bambi Buckets” and have come to Turkey to assist with its wildfire and especially emerging fires suppression efforts. Our firefighting crew members look forward to working together with their Turkish counterparts.
Turkey answered our call for help with personal protective equipment early in the fight against COVID-19. We are proud to return the gesture by responding to Turkey’s request for support. This action is another example of mutual steps that strengthen the deep U.S.-Turkey alliance and is an investment in our partnership and bilateral relationship. We are committed to our friend and NATO Ally Turkey. We are stronger together.
