After the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami hit Japan on 11 March 2011 , the squadron sent eight of its KC-130Js to Iwakuni for disaster relief and support for the Japanese Government and people in what became “ Operation Tomodachi ” . The first crews left with less than a 24-hour notice and were not given an expected return date . In the month of April the squadron continued support for Operation Tomodachi . A three-aircraft detachment shifted to Atsugi , and most crews were moved back home to the squadron and based out of Futenma for the remaining support
Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami
2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami
VMGR-152