KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

MV Titan Discovery is Titan's newest acquisition to their fleet. Launched in January 2014, both vessel and crew have a wide range of experience and expertise within the hydrographic, oceanographic and environmental industry. Since she was launched, the vessel has worked on numerous projects throughout Northern Europe; covering the UK, Ireland and Belgium.

MV Titan Discovery's shallow draft and ease of maneuverability ensure that she can work in the most challenging and shallow conditions. Alongside a permanently installed Teledyne Reson Dual Head T20-P multibeam system, deployed through a central moon pool, she is also able to deploy a wide range of survey gear through a secondary moon pool, A-frame and Davit arms.​

Specifications

Type:Alicat South Boat 13m Catamaran

MCA Coding: Small Commercial Vessel (SCV): 60 Miles from Safe Haven

Length: 13 m

Beam: 5 m

Draft: 1.2 m

Engines: Twin IVECO 450 hp Diesel Engines 2 x Diesel 6 kW Lombardini Generators

Speed : Up to 25 knots

Fuel Capacity: 2000 litres

Water Tanks: 200 litres

Accommodation: 4 x Single Cabins, Galley, Heads with Shower

Safety Equipment

2 x 8 man Solas B pack life raft with hydrostatic release

Class B AIS system, NavTex, Raymarine navigation package

2 MCA approved life rings with line and light, emergency over the side ladder

18 lifejackets (6 x 275N twin bladder with AIS PLB’s, 4 x Foam), 6 offshore immersion suits

4 x parachute flares, 6 x red hand flares, 2 x smoke signals

2 x fixed VHF GMDSS radios, 2 x portable handheld VHF & 406 MHz EPIRB

4 x portable fire extinguishers, 2 x fire buckets and lanyards, 1 x fire blanket & marine fire safety Statex engine bay fire detection and suppression system in both engine bays

Category C First Aid Kits

Remotely operated searchlight

Hydraulic powered deck wash

All crew are trained to STCW 95 standard

Survey Equipment

Trimble HYDROpro navigation software

Odom Ecotrac MKIII dual frequency (30kHz & 210kHz) echosounder (hull mounted)

Teledyne Reson SeaBat dual head T20-P multibeam echosounder (deployed through central moonpool)

Applanix PosMV Wavemaster Inertial Navigation system with POSPac MMS PPK software. Trimble SPS852 dual frequency RTK system utilising VRS Now. Hemisphere VS110 DGPS receiver

Hydraulic A-frame with 1.5 tonne single trawl drum winch with hard tow cable and cable counter

Second moonpool available for a wide range of sensors

Titan's Survey Experience

Cable route surveys

IHO standard bathymetry surveys

UXO surveys

Pipeline inspection surveys

Marine construction surveys

Aggregate dredging surveys

Oceanographic survey

Environmental surveys

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

Masterdancer Shantala Shivalingappa leads a dance masterclass for UNC students and community members through Carolina Performing Arts’ Dance Masterclass Series. Ms. Shivalingappa is internationally known for her expertise in the Indian dance form Kuchipudi. She performed at Memorial Hall as a part of Carolina Performing Arts’ season on November 8th, 2011.

- Kaitlin Houlditch-Fair

Through investments in science, technology and innovation, USAID is harnessing new partners and young minds to transform more lives than ever before. We are fundamentally changing how we do business. Our new model for development is creating game-changing partnerships that leverage resources, expertise, and science and technology to maximize our impact around the world. USAID is measuring our leadership in results, not dollars spent, implementing innovative, cost-effective strategies to save lives and help communities lift themselves out of poverty. Photo credit: USAID

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

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CAVE 15

(DASAVATARA OR TEN INCARNATIONS OF VISNU)

Probably for the first time at Ellora, the architects had gained enough expertise; they experimented by carving out a monolith structure out of the solid rock mass. This led to the finishing of the front mandapa of this cave which is two storeyed. This mandapa also has a historical record of the Rashtrakuta king Dantidurga, which is mentioned above. The inscription mentions the genealogy of some of the kings of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. They are Dantivarma I (c. A.D. 600-630), his son Indraraja I (630-650), his son Govindaraja (650-675), his son Karkaraja I (675-700), his son Indraraja II (700-725), his son Dantidurga Khadgavaloka (725-757). Interestingly, the sculptural representations on the pillars of top storey are Buddhist, while the lower part is Brahmanical.

The first storey is reached by a flight of steps, which has eleven sunken compartments in which huge bas-reliefs of various gods and goddesses are carved. They are Ganapati, Parvati, Surya, Siva and Parvati, Mahisasuramardini, Ardhanarisvara, Bhavani or Durga, Ganapati, Uma in penance attitude, Ardhanarisvara and Kali.

The second storey measures 109 feet by 95 feet inclusive of a shrine of linga and an antechamber. The side walls of the front chamber have deep recesses adorned with huge sculptural reliefs. The sculptural representations are of Gajasamharamurti, Nataraja, Bhavani or Durga, Siva and Parvati playing the game of chausar, Kalyanasundara murti, Ravanugraha murti on the north wall. The back wall has Markandeya anugraha murti, Gangadhara murti, Ganapati, Parvati, Gajalakshmi, Vishnu, Lingodhbhava Siva and Tripurantaka murti. The south wall has the representations of Govardhanadhari Vishnu, Sheshasayi Vishnu, Vishnu on garuda, Varaha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu, Vamana Trivikrama avatara of Vishnu, Narasimha avatara of Vishnu.

(Archaeological Survey of India)

___________________________________

Ellora (\e-ˈlȯr-ə\, Marathi: वेरूळ Vērūḷa), is an archaeological site, 29 km North-West of the city of Aurangabad in the Indian state of Maharashtra built by the Rashtrakuta dynasty. It is also known as Elapura (in the Rashtrakuta literature-Kannada). Well known for its monumental caves, Ellora is a World Heritage Site. Ellora represents the epitome of Indian rock-cut architecture. The 34 "caves" are actually structures excavated out of the vertical face of the Charanandri hills. Buddhist, Hindu and Jain rock-cut temples and viharas and mathas were built between the 5th century and 10th century. The 12 Buddhist (caves 1–12), 17 Hindu (caves 13–29) and 5 Jain (caves 30–34) caves, built in proximity, demonstrate the religious harmony prevalent during this period of Indian history. It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.

ETYMOLOGY

Ellora, also called Verula or Elura, is the cave form of the Ancient name Elapura.

HISTORY

Ellora is known for Hindu, Buddhist and Jain cave temples built during (6th and 9th centuries) the rule of the Kalachuri, Chalukya and Rashtrakuta dynasties. The Jagannatha Sabha a group of five Jain cave temples of 9th century built by Rashtrakuta.

THE BUDDHIST CAVES

These caves were built during the 5th-7th century. It was initially thought that the Buddhist caves were one of the earliest structures, created between the fifth and eighth centuries, with caves 1-5 in the first phase (400-600) and 6-12 in the later phase (mid 7th-mid 8th), but now it is clear to the modern scholars that some of the Hindu caves (27,29,21,28,19,26,20,17 and 14) precede these caves.[citation needed] The earliest Buddhist cave is Cave 6, followed by 5,2,3,5 (right wing), 4,7,8,10 and 9. Caves 11 and 12 were the last. All the Buddhist caves were constructed between 630-700.

These structures consist mostly of viharas or monasteries: large, multi-storeyed buildings carved into the mountain face, including living quarters, sleeping quarters, kitchens, and other rooms. Some of these monastery caves have shrines including carvings of Gautama Buddha, bodhisattvas and saints. In many of these caves, sculptors have endeavoured to give the stone the look of wood.

Most famous of the Buddhist caves is cave 10, (refer map) a chaitya hall (chandrashala) or 'Vishvakarma cave', popularly known as the 'Carpenter's Cave'. Beyond its multi-storeyed entry is a cathedral-like stupa hall also known as chaitya, whose ceiling has been carved to give the impression of wooden beams. At the heart of this cave is a 15-foot statue of Buddha seated in a preaching pose. Amongst other Buddhist caves, all of the first nine (caves 1–9) are monasteries. The last two caves, Do Tal (cave 11) and Tin Tal (cave 12) have three stories.

CAVE 10

Cave 10 is a vihara with eight cells, four in the back wall and four in the right wall. It had a portico in the front with a cell. Possibly served as a granary for other viharas.

THE VISHWAKARMA

The Vishwakarma (Cave 10) is the only chaitya griha amongst the Buddhist group of caves. It is locally known as Vishwakarma or Sutar ka jhopda "carpenter's hut". It follows the pattern of construction of Caves 19 and 26 of Ajanta. On stylistic grounds, the date of construction of this cave is assigned to 700 A.D. The chaitya once had a high screen wall, which is ruined at present. At the front is a rock-cut court, which is entered through a flight of steps. On either side are pillared porticos with chambers in their back walls. These were probably intended to have subsidiary shrines but not completed. The pillared verandah of the chaitya has a small shrine at either end and a single cell in the far end of the back wall. The corridor columns have massive squarish shafts and ghata-pallava (vase and foliage) capitals. The main hall is apsidal on plan and is divided into a central nave and side aisles by 28 octagonal columns with plain bracket capitals. In the apsidal end of the chaitya hall is a stupa on the face of which a colossal 3.30 m high seated Buddha in vyakhyana mudra (teaching posture) is carved. A large Bodhi tree is carved at the back. The hall has a vaulted roof in which ribs have been carved in the rock imitating the wooden ones.

THE HINDU CAVES

The Hindu caves were constructed between the middle of sixth century to the end of the eighth century. The early caves (caves 17–29) were constructed during the Kalachuri period. The work first commenced in Caves 28, 27 and 19. These were followed by two most impressive caves constructed in the early phase - Caves 29 and 21. Along with these two, work was underway at Caves 20 and 26, and slightly later at Caves 17, 19 and 28. The caves 14, 15 and 16 were constructed during the Rashtrakuta period. The work began in Caves 14 and 15 and culminated in Cave 16. All these structures represent a different style of creative vision and execution skills. Some were of such complexity that they required several generations of planning and co-ordination to complete.

THE KAILASANATHA TEMPLE

Cave 16, also known as the Kailasa temple, is the unrivaled centerpiece of Ellora. This is designed to recall Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva – looks like a freestanding, multi-storeyed temple complex, but it was carved out of one single rock, and covers an area double the size of Parthenon in Athens. Initially the temple was covered with white plaster thus even more increasing the similarity to snow-covered Mount Kailash.

All the carvings are done in more than one level. A two-storeyed gateway resembling a South Indian Gopura opens to reveal a U-shaped courtyard. The courtyard is edged by columned galleries three storeys high. The galleries are punctuated by huge sculpted panels, and alcoves containing enormous sculptures of a variety of deities. Originally flying bridges of stone connected these galleries to central temple structures, but these have fallen.

Within the courtyard are three structures. As is traditional in Shiva temples, the first is a large image of the sacred bull Nandi in front of the central temple. The central temple - Nandi Mantapa or Mandapa - houses the Lingam. The Nandi Mandapa stands on 16 pillars and is 29.3 m high. The base of the Nandi Mandapa has been carved to suggest that life-sized elephants are holding the structure aloft. A living rock bridge connects the Nandi Mandapa to the Shiva temple behind it. The temple itself is a tall pyramidal structure reminiscent of a South Indian Dravidian temple. The shrine – complete with pillars, windows, inner and outer rooms, gathering halls, and an enormous lingam at its heart – carved from living stone, is carved with niches, pilasters, windows as well as images of deities, mithunas (erotic male and female figures) and other figures. Most of the deities at the left of the entrance are Shaivaite (followers of Shiva) while on the right hand side the deities are Vaishnavaites (followers of Vishnu). There are two Dhvajastambhas (pillars with the flagstaff) in the courtyard. The grand sculpture of Ravana attempting to lift Mount Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva, with his full might is a landmark in Indian art. The construction of this cave was a feat of human genius – it entailed the removal of 200,000 tonnes of rock, and took 100 years to complete.

The temple is a splendid achievement of Rashtrakuta Karnata architecture. This project was started by Krishna I (757–773) of the Rashtrakuta dynasty that ruled from Manyakheta in present day Karnataka state. His rule had also spread to southern India, hence this temple was excavated in the prevailing style. Its builders modelled it on the lines of the Virupaksha Temple in Pattadakal. Being a south Indian style temple, it does not have a shikhara common to north Indian temples. – The Guide to the Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent, 1996, Takeo Kamiya, Japan Architects Academy and archaeological Survey of India.

THE DASHAVATARA

The Dashavatara (Cave 15) was begun as a Buddhist monastery. It has an open court with a free-standing monolithic mandapa at the middle and a two-storeyed excavated temple at the rear. The layout of the temple is closely related to caves 11 and 12. Large sculptural panels between the wall columns on the upper floor illustrate a wide range of themes, which include the ten avatars of Vishnu. An inscription of grant of Dantidurga is found on the back wall of the front mandapa. According to Coomaraswamy, the finest relief of this cave is the one depicting the death of Hiranyakashipu, where Vishnu in man-lion (Narasimha) form, emerges from a pillar to lay a fatal hand upon the shoulder of Hiranyakashipu.

OTHER HINDU CAVES

CAVE 21

Other notable Hindu caves are the Rameshvara (Cave 21), which has figurines of river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna at the entrance and the Dhumar Lena (Cave 29) whose design is similar to the cave temple on Elephanta Island near Mumbai. Two other caves, the Ravan ki Khai (Cave 14) and the Nilkantha (Cave 22) also have several sculptures. The rest of the Hindu caves, which include the Kumbharvada (Cave 25) and the Gopilena (Cave 27) have no significant sculptures.

The five Jain caves at Ellora belong to the ninth and tenth centuries. They all belong to the Digambara sect. Jain caves reveal specific dimensions of Jain philosophy and tradition. They reflect a strict sense of asceticism – they are not relatively large as compared to others, but they present exceptionally detailed art works. The most remarkable Jain shrines are the Chhota Kailash (cave 30), the Indra Sabha (cave 32) and the Jagannath Sabha (cave 33). Cave 31 is an unfinished four-pillared hall and a shrine. Cave 34 is a small cave, which can be approached through an opening on the left side of Cave 33. Amongst other devotional carvings, a place called samvatsarana can be found in Elora caves. Samvatsarana is of special interest to Jains, as it is a hall where the tirthankara preaches after attaining omniscience.

THE INDRA SABHA

The Indra Sabha (Cave 32) is a two storeyed cave with one more monolithic shrine in its court. It has a very fine carving of the lotus flower on the ceiling. It got the appellation "Indra Sabha" probably it is significantly ornate and also because of the sculpture of the yaksha (dedicated attendant deity) Matanga on an elephant, which was wrongly identified as that of Indra. On the upper level of the double-storied shrine excavated at the rear of the court, an U image of Ambika, the yakshini of Neminath, is found seated on her lion under a mango tree, laden with fruits.

OTHER JAIN CAVES

All other Jain caves are also characterized by intricate detailing. Many of the structures had rich paintings in the ceilings - fragments of which are still visible.

GEOLOGY OF ELLORA

Ellora occupies a relatively flat region of the Western Ghats. Ancient volcanic activity in this area created many layered basalt formations, known as Deccan Traps. During the Cretaceous, one such volcanic hill formed on the southwest-facing side of Ellora. Its vertical face made access to many layers of rock formations easier, enabling architects to pick basalt with finer grains for more detailed sculpting.

INSCRIPTIONS AT ELLORA

Several inscriptions at Ellora range from 6th century to 15th century. The best known of them is an inscription of Rashtrakuta Dantidurga (c. 753-57 A.D.) on the back wall of the front mandapa of Cave 15, which gives an account of his conquests. Inscriptions on the Kailash temple itself range from 9th to 15th century. Jain cave Jagannatha Sabha has 3 inscriptions that give the names of monks and donors. A Parshvanth temple on the hill has a 11th-century inscription that gives the name of the donor from Vardhanapura.

The Great Kailasa (Cave 16) is attributed to Krishna I (c. 757-83 A.D.), the successor and uncle of Dantidurga. A copper plate grant by Karka II (c. 812-13 A.D.) narrates that a great edifice was built on a hill by Krishnaraja at Elapura (Ellora).

The Ellora caves, unlike Ajanta, were never lost. There have been several written records that indicate that these caves were visited regularly. The earliest is that of the Arab geographer Al-Mas‘udi of the 10th century A.D. In 1352 A.D. Sultan Hasan Gangu Bahmani, who camped at the site and visited the caves. The others are by Firishta, Thevenot (1633–67), Niccolao Manucci (1653-1708), Charles Warre Malet (1794), and Seely (1824)

WIKIPEDIA

CAVE 15

(DASAVATARA OR TEN INCARNATIONS OF VISNU)

Probably for the first time at Ellora, the architects had gained enough expertise; they experimented by carving out a monolith structure out of the solid rock mass. This led to the finishing of the front mandapa of this cave which is two storeyed. This mandapa also has a historical record of the Rashtrakuta king Dantidurga, which is mentioned above. The inscription mentions the genealogy of some of the kings of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. They are Dantivarma I (c. A.D. 600-630), his son Indraraja I (630-650), his son Govindaraja (650-675), his son Karkaraja I (675-700), his son Indraraja II (700-725), his son Dantidurga Khadgavaloka (725-757). Interestingly, the sculptural representations on the pillars of top storey are Buddhist, while the lower part is Brahmanical.

The first storey is reached by a flight of steps, which has eleven sunken compartments in which huge bas-reliefs of various gods and goddesses are carved. They are Ganapati, Parvati, Surya, Siva and Parvati, Mahisasuramardini, Ardhanarisvara, Bhavani or Durga, Ganapati, Uma in penance attitude, Ardhanarisvara and Kali.

The second storey measures 109 feet by 95 feet inclusive of a shrine of linga and an antechamber. The side walls of the front chamber have deep recesses adorned with huge sculptural reliefs. The sculptural representations are of Gajasamharamurti, Nataraja, Bhavani or Durga, Siva and Parvati playing the game of chausar, Kalyanasundara murti, Ravanugraha murti on the north wall. The back wall has Markandeya anugraha murti, Gangadhara murti, Ganapati, Parvati, Gajalakshmi, Vishnu, Lingodhbhava Siva and Tripurantaka murti. The south wall has the representations of Govardhanadhari Vishnu, Sheshasayi Vishnu, Vishnu on garuda, Varaha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu, Vamana Trivikrama avatara of Vishnu, Narasimha avatara of Vishnu.

(Archaeological Survey of India)

___________________________________

Ellora (\e-ˈlȯr-ə\, Marathi: वेरूळ Vērūḷa), is an archaeological site, 29 km North-West of the city of Aurangabad in the Indian state of Maharashtra built by the Rashtrakuta dynasty. It is also known as Elapura (in the Rashtrakuta literature-Kannada). Well known for its monumental caves, Ellora is a World Heritage Site. Ellora represents the epitome of Indian rock-cut architecture. The 34 "caves" are actually structures excavated out of the vertical face of the Charanandri hills. Buddhist, Hindu and Jain rock-cut temples and viharas and mathas were built between the 5th century and 10th century. The 12 Buddhist (caves 1–12), 17 Hindu (caves 13–29) and 5 Jain (caves 30–34) caves, built in proximity, demonstrate the religious harmony prevalent during this period of Indian history. It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.

ETYMOLOGY

Ellora, also called Verula or Elura, is the cave form of the Ancient name Elapura.

HISTORY

Ellora is known for Hindu, Buddhist and Jain cave temples built during (6th and 9th centuries) the rule of the Kalachuri, Chalukya and Rashtrakuta dynasties. The Jagannatha Sabha a group of five Jain cave temples of 9th century built by Rashtrakuta.

THE BUDDHIST CAVES

These caves were built during the 5th-7th century. It was initially thought that the Buddhist caves were one of the earliest structures, created between the fifth and eighth centuries, with caves 1-5 in the first phase (400-600) and 6-12 in the later phase (mid 7th-mid 8th), but now it is clear to the modern scholars that some of the Hindu caves (27,29,21,28,19,26,20,17 and 14) precede these caves.[citation needed] The earliest Buddhist cave is Cave 6, followed by 5,2,3,5 (right wing), 4,7,8,10 and 9. Caves 11 and 12 were the last. All the Buddhist caves were constructed between 630-700.

These structures consist mostly of viharas or monasteries: large, multi-storeyed buildings carved into the mountain face, including living quarters, sleeping quarters, kitchens, and other rooms. Some of these monastery caves have shrines including carvings of Gautama Buddha, bodhisattvas and saints. In many of these caves, sculptors have endeavoured to give the stone the look of wood.

Most famous of the Buddhist caves is cave 10, (refer map) a chaitya hall (chandrashala) or 'Vishvakarma cave', popularly known as the 'Carpenter's Cave'. Beyond its multi-storeyed entry is a cathedral-like stupa hall also known as chaitya, whose ceiling has been carved to give the impression of wooden beams. At the heart of this cave is a 15-foot statue of Buddha seated in a preaching pose. Amongst other Buddhist caves, all of the first nine (caves 1–9) are monasteries. The last two caves, Do Tal (cave 11) and Tin Tal (cave 12) have three stories.

CAVE 10

Cave 10 is a vihara with eight cells, four in the back wall and four in the right wall. It had a portico in the front with a cell. Possibly served as a granary for other viharas.

THE VISHWAKARMA

The Vishwakarma (Cave 10) is the only chaitya griha amongst the Buddhist group of caves. It is locally known as Vishwakarma or Sutar ka jhopda "carpenter's hut". It follows the pattern of construction of Caves 19 and 26 of Ajanta. On stylistic grounds, the date of construction of this cave is assigned to 700 A.D. The chaitya once had a high screen wall, which is ruined at present. At the front is a rock-cut court, which is entered through a flight of steps. On either side are pillared porticos with chambers in their back walls. These were probably intended to have subsidiary shrines but not completed. The pillared verandah of the chaitya has a small shrine at either end and a single cell in the far end of the back wall. The corridor columns have massive squarish shafts and ghata-pallava (vase and foliage) capitals. The main hall is apsidal on plan and is divided into a central nave and side aisles by 28 octagonal columns with plain bracket capitals. In the apsidal end of the chaitya hall is a stupa on the face of which a colossal 3.30 m high seated Buddha in vyakhyana mudra (teaching posture) is carved. A large Bodhi tree is carved at the back. The hall has a vaulted roof in which ribs have been carved in the rock imitating the wooden ones.

THE HINDU CAVES

The Hindu caves were constructed between the middle of sixth century to the end of the eighth century. The early caves (caves 17–29) were constructed during the Kalachuri period. The work first commenced in Caves 28, 27 and 19. These were followed by two most impressive caves constructed in the early phase - Caves 29 and 21. Along with these two, work was underway at Caves 20 and 26, and slightly later at Caves 17, 19 and 28. The caves 14, 15 and 16 were constructed during the Rashtrakuta period. The work began in Caves 14 and 15 and culminated in Cave 16. All these structures represent a different style of creative vision and execution skills. Some were of such complexity that they required several generations of planning and co-ordination to complete.

THE KAILASANATHA TEMPLE

Cave 16, also known as the Kailasa temple, is the unrivaled centerpiece of Ellora. This is designed to recall Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva – looks like a freestanding, multi-storeyed temple complex, but it was carved out of one single rock, and covers an area double the size of Parthenon in Athens. Initially the temple was covered with white plaster thus even more increasing the similarity to snow-covered Mount Kailash.

All the carvings are done in more than one level. A two-storeyed gateway resembling a South Indian Gopura opens to reveal a U-shaped courtyard. The courtyard is edged by columned galleries three storeys high. The galleries are punctuated by huge sculpted panels, and alcoves containing enormous sculptures of a variety of deities. Originally flying bridges of stone connected these galleries to central temple structures, but these have fallen.

Within the courtyard are three structures. As is traditional in Shiva temples, the first is a large image of the sacred bull Nandi in front of the central temple. The central temple - Nandi Mantapa or Mandapa - houses the Lingam. The Nandi Mandapa stands on 16 pillars and is 29.3 m high. The base of the Nandi Mandapa has been carved to suggest that life-sized elephants are holding the structure aloft. A living rock bridge connects the Nandi Mandapa to the Shiva temple behind it. The temple itself is a tall pyramidal structure reminiscent of a South Indian Dravidian temple. The shrine – complete with pillars, windows, inner and outer rooms, gathering halls, and an enormous lingam at its heart – carved from living stone, is carved with niches, pilasters, windows as well as images of deities, mithunas (erotic male and female figures) and other figures. Most of the deities at the left of the entrance are Shaivaite (followers of Shiva) while on the right hand side the deities are Vaishnavaites (followers of Vishnu). There are two Dhvajastambhas (pillars with the flagstaff) in the courtyard. The grand sculpture of Ravana attempting to lift Mount Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva, with his full might is a landmark in Indian art. The construction of this cave was a feat of human genius – it entailed the removal of 200,000 tonnes of rock, and took 100 years to complete.

The temple is a splendid achievement of Rashtrakuta Karnata architecture. This project was started by Krishna I (757–773) of the Rashtrakuta dynasty that ruled from Manyakheta in present day Karnataka state. His rule had also spread to southern India, hence this temple was excavated in the prevailing style. Its builders modelled it on the lines of the Virupaksha Temple in Pattadakal. Being a south Indian style temple, it does not have a shikhara common to north Indian temples. – The Guide to the Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent, 1996, Takeo Kamiya, Japan Architects Academy and archaeological Survey of India.

THE DASHAVATARA

The Dashavatara (Cave 15) was begun as a Buddhist monastery. It has an open court with a free-standing monolithic mandapa at the middle and a two-storeyed excavated temple at the rear. The layout of the temple is closely related to caves 11 and 12. Large sculptural panels between the wall columns on the upper floor illustrate a wide range of themes, which include the ten avatars of Vishnu. An inscription of grant of Dantidurga is found on the back wall of the front mandapa. According to Coomaraswamy, the finest relief of this cave is the one depicting the death of Hiranyakashipu, where Vishnu in man-lion (Narasimha) form, emerges from a pillar to lay a fatal hand upon the shoulder of Hiranyakashipu.

OTHER HINDU CAVES

CAVE 21

Other notable Hindu caves are the Rameshvara (Cave 21), which has figurines of river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna at the entrance and the Dhumar Lena (Cave 29) whose design is similar to the cave temple on Elephanta Island near Mumbai. Two other caves, the Ravan ki Khai (Cave 14) and the Nilkantha (Cave 22) also have several sculptures. The rest of the Hindu caves, which include the Kumbharvada (Cave 25) and the Gopilena (Cave 27) have no significant sculptures.

The five Jain caves at Ellora belong to the ninth and tenth centuries. They all belong to the Digambara sect. Jain caves reveal specific dimensions of Jain philosophy and tradition. They reflect a strict sense of asceticism – they are not relatively large as compared to others, but they present exceptionally detailed art works. The most remarkable Jain shrines are the Chhota Kailash (cave 30), the Indra Sabha (cave 32) and the Jagannath Sabha (cave 33). Cave 31 is an unfinished four-pillared hall and a shrine. Cave 34 is a small cave, which can be approached through an opening on the left side of Cave 33. Amongst other devotional carvings, a place called samvatsarana can be found in Elora caves. Samvatsarana is of special interest to Jains, as it is a hall where the tirthankara preaches after attaining omniscience.

THE INDRA SABHA

The Indra Sabha (Cave 32) is a two storeyed cave with one more monolithic shrine in its court. It has a very fine carving of the lotus flower on the ceiling. It got the appellation "Indra Sabha" probably it is significantly ornate and also because of the sculpture of the yaksha (dedicated attendant deity) Matanga on an elephant, which was wrongly identified as that of Indra. On the upper level of the double-storied shrine excavated at the rear of the court, an U image of Ambika, the yakshini of Neminath, is found seated on her lion under a mango tree, laden with fruits.

OTHER JAIN CAVES

All other Jain caves are also characterized by intricate detailing. Many of the structures had rich paintings in the ceilings - fragments of which are still visible.

GEOLOGY OF ELLORA

Ellora occupies a relatively flat region of the Western Ghats. Ancient volcanic activity in this area created many layered basalt formations, known as Deccan Traps. During the Cretaceous, one such volcanic hill formed on the southwest-facing side of Ellora. Its vertical face made access to many layers of rock formations easier, enabling architects to pick basalt with finer grains for more detailed sculpting.

INSCRIPTIONS AT ELLORA

Several inscriptions at Ellora range from 6th century to 15th century. The best known of them is an inscription of Rashtrakuta Dantidurga (c. 753-57 A.D.) on the back wall of the front mandapa of Cave 15, which gives an account of his conquests. Inscriptions on the Kailash temple itself range from 9th to 15th century. Jain cave Jagannatha Sabha has 3 inscriptions that give the names of monks and donors. A Parshvanth temple on the hill has a 11th-century inscription that gives the name of the donor from Vardhanapura.

The Great Kailasa (Cave 16) is attributed to Krishna I (c. 757-83 A.D.), the successor and uncle of Dantidurga. A copper plate grant by Karka II (c. 812-13 A.D.) narrates that a great edifice was built on a hill by Krishnaraja at Elapura (Ellora).

The Ellora caves, unlike Ajanta, were never lost. There have been several written records that indicate that these caves were visited regularly. The earliest is that of the Arab geographer Al-Mas‘udi of the 10th century A.D. In 1352 A.D. Sultan Hasan Gangu Bahmani, who camped at the site and visited the caves. The others are by Firishta, Thevenot (1633–67), Niccolao Manucci (1653-1708), Charles Warre Malet (1794), and Seely (1824)

WIKIPEDIA

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

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This was the poster for both PyongSu's own pharmacies and partnering third party pharmacies sharing the same philosophy.

One of the core elements of PyongSu's strategy was what Felix Abt called the Quality Pharmacy concept to clearly distinguish its pharmacies from those of its competitors. This idea not only included quality pharmaceuticals (both manufactured and imported by PyongSu) for the treatment of more than 90% of all diseases, but also the provision of quality customer service and healthcare advice based on professionalism, expertise and ethical integrity. It sounded simple, but reaching this pinnacle was easier said than done.

- Klaus-Martin Meyer (interview-blog.de) interviewing Felix Abt ("an amazing business pioneer in North Korea") on how PyongSu was turned into a success story, despite highly adverse circumstances, and on other North Korea related business: www.interview-blog.de/unternehmerinnen-und-geschaftsideen...

- Watch on YouTube “PyongSu Pharma J.V. Co., Pyongyang, and what it stands for.” www.youtube.com/watch?v=owCIiwZXY2w

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

Knowsley Safari Park is a zoological park and tourist attraction in the Knowsley area of Merseyside, England. Knowsley Safari Park is a member of the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) and the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA). The safari park contributes to conservation and research through links with conservation projects and its links with universities in Liverpool, Chester and Manchester.

History

The park was opened in July 1971 by Edward Stanley, 18th Earl of Derby and Jimmy Chipperfield[9] using the expertise of general manager Laurence Tennant MBE, formerly the Chief Game Warden of Parks in Uganda and Botswana. Initially the road through the park was 3.5 miles (5.6 km), with visitors driving past lions, cheetahs, monkeys, giraffes, zebra, elephants and various antelope. Due to the popularity of this route, an additional 1.5 miles (2.4 km) of road was added in 1973, and camels, buffalo, white rhino, and tigers were added to the park. Over the years, a few modifications have been made. For instance, tigers are now displayed in enclosures within the reserve, and a bypass around the baboons was built for visitors who are worried about damage to their cars.

The park was also home to a former RAF airfield which closed at the end of World War II. The RAF airbase situated at the safari park was also known as No 49 SLG or RAF Knowsley Park and was in use between 13 May 1942 – November 1944.

The park has hosted several sporting events including the Olympic torch relay, watched by 6,000 children and families in June 2012. The park hosted the finish of Stage Two of the 2012 Tour of Britain cycling event and is scheduled to host Stage Three of the 2013 Tour on Tuesday 17 September.

Most recently it hosted the final leg of Big Learner Relay 2017 which has raised over £300,000 for the BBC Children in Need appeal since 2014. Louise Walsh the inspiration behind the BLR has been awarded the prime minister's points of light award which recognises outstanding individual volunteers.

In 1995 Mr William Middleton, a warden at the park, was crushed and paralysed due to a faulty elephant enclosure. Mr Middleton died 12 years later due to complications caused by his injuries.

Zoological collection

Situated around Knowsley Hall on the ancestral estate of the Earl of Derby, the reserve is home to many different animals including elephants, giraffes, lions, bongos, tigers and baboons. The Derby Estate have a tradition of keeping animals, ever since the famous artist and nonsense-poet Edward Lear was employed there in the 19th century to paint pictures of the Earl's collection.

The park is open to the public and customers drive around the park in their own vehicles. There is a bypass route past the baboons for those who wish to avoid the risk of the baboons damaging their cars. In 2009 the baboons made the news all over the world when a video was released showing how they were intelligent and curious enough to open car roofboxes.

Tiger Trail

Amur Tiger Trail opened 25 May 2018, home to the Amur Tiger otherwise known as the Siberian Tiger. The area is 10,000m2 and includes forested areas, natural streams and ponds.

The Equatorial Trail

This exhibit focuses on animals who thrive in habitats around the Earth's Equator. The exhibit also houses the 'Equatorial Express', a small train which visitors can ride to gain a unique viewpoint of the animals. 4 completely different species of animals are housed in this exhibit, the South American tapir, Sitatunga, Rhea and the Capybara.

African Elephant

Until 2017 the park housed a herd of 4 adult cows named Tana, Ashanti, Nala and Juba. They were transported to Zoo Parc d'Beauval, France to enter the European Breeding Programme and allow for transformations on Knowsley Safari's Foot Safari. Knowsley previously housed a bull named Nissim, who collapsed in June 2014. Knowsley also recently lost their cow named Shaba due to a long battle with elephant arthritis.

Southern White Rhinoceros

Knowsley's crash of 11 adult rhinos is one of the most successful and genetically diverse breeding groups in Europe. The latest calf (as at 4 June 2016), Nomvula (Mother of Rain – a reference to the recent wet weather), born to mum Meru and is the 19th to be born at the facility in the last 40 years. Nomvula is Meru's 6th calf and was born on 2 January 2016.

Safari Drive

The Safari Drive is the park's main attraction and contains over 29 species of animals in 7 zones.

Zone 1+11

This zone contains: Père David's deer, Yak, Kiang and Bactrian camel.

Zone 2+8

This zone contains: Blackbuck, Nilgai, Eld's deer, Chital (Axis Deer) and Barasingha.

Zone 3+4+6

Zone 6 is over 100 acres and contains over a mile of road. It is one of Knowsley's two white rhino paddocks and is one of the largest in the UK. This zone contains: Southern White Rhino, Roan antelope, Eland, Lechwe, Wildebeest, Plains Zebra, African Forest Buffalo, Ostritch and Waterbuck.

Zone 5

This zone contains: Blesbok and Bongo

Zone 7

This zone contains exclusively the Olive baboon, which are famous for removing windscreen wipers and other appendages off vehicles. There is a car-friendly route which totally removes this zone however is still visible from outside the perimeter. This leads directly to zone 6.

Zone 9

This zone contains: European Bison, Fallow Deer and European Moose

Zone 10

This zone contains: Lion, and the Somali wild ass. This zone previously housed African wild dog, Iberian Wolf and Siberian Tiger.

All information correct and sourced from the Knowsley Safari Guide Book 2018 and edited by an editor who loves animals.

Railway and other attractions

The park features a 15 in (381 mm) gauge railway, 'The Lakeside Railway', on which visitors may tour parts of the site. There is also a collection of amusements and fairground rides on site plus paintballing, off-road driving challenges, and aerial extreme ropewalks.

A baboon house was added in 2006, along with African wild dogs that same year, a lion and tiger house in 2007. Red river hogs and marmosets were also added to the walkaround section, as well as an outdoor pool.

Animal care

In January 2011, local animal rights activists held a peaceful demonstration after an inspection by government vets found one instance of a breach of regulations on the disposal of animal ‘by-products’. Pictures in the Daily Mail showed animals lying dead on the ground and in binbags, although the park's directors claim the pictures were staged by the photographer, whose husband the paper claimed had recently lost his job at the park. The park has since installed an enclosure for the storage of animal carcasses before disposal. The British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums (BIAZA) later said it had ‘full confidence’ in Knowsley and praised its ‘excellent standards of animal husbandry and welfare’.

Peacekeepers from Mongolia serving with UNMISS used their engineering expertise to renovate the Abienmom Hospital which was in disrepair after years of war. They repaired and painted walls, fixed the electricity supply and extended the cabling system so that it reaches all the hospital’s main rooms. The engineers created a special isolation room for COVID-19 patients, installed new water tanks, hand washing facilities, and handed over a wide variety of medical supplies.

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

Members of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Europe District’s Forward Engineer Support Team – Advance participate in Exercise Arctic Edge April 20-30, 2010, where they assisted with aerial route reconnaissance, bridge assessment and contingency gap crossing expertise in support of the U.S. Northern Command, Joint Task Force Alaska, and other military units as well as federal, state and local authorities. (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers photo)

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About Us

Welcome to the nucleus of manpower expertise that defines human resource as the most vital component to the expansive aims and objectives of any corporation or business. For companies with a recruitment mission, we form the most strategic and inventive part of the process. And for career-focused candidates, we become a conduit for perfect synergy between career excellence and an equally rewarding remuneration.

We are R.K. International, a premier manpower consultancy firm. Scroll down to know more about us.

About the R.K.I Logo

The R.K. International’s logo seen here is an elongated circle, representing the world. A world full of opportunities and experiences. The central perpendicular oval represents a relationship of trust bestowed on it by its clients and customers. With bold letters RK highlighted in between, it cuts the central oval exactly in between symbolic of connecting its clients and its customers towards boundless opportunities that lie ahead. R.K. International has always stood for it’s mission “In the service of humanity” and it abides by it keeping in mind the ever expanding changes in the global world.

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About the Founder

Mr. Kamal Khosla, Founder-President Of R.K. International.

Mr. Kamal Khosla, the man behind R.K. INTERNATIONAL has been in the business since 1978. Mr. Kamal Khosla is a man of great experience & expertise. His greatest assets are his Public Relation skills that he has mastered through wide both inbound & outbound traveling. He is meticulous, well informed and focused in his approach. Mr. Khosla has handled jobs of a wide variety from a range of Gulf, Middle-east, African and South Asian countries. The personal services rendered by him have been prompting the same employers to utilize of his office repeatedly.

Mr. Kamal Khosla oversees the operations of all R.K. International and associated firms and has played the central role in evolution of organization. He is responsible for creation and establishment of firms like Khosla Transport Corporation, Gulf Medical Centre and Khosla Travels Private Limited. All dedicated to the service of Humanity. The dream which was visualised was turned in to reality by Mr Kamal Khosla. He is a visionary and a force to reckon with.

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Key Personnel

Mr. Nawal Khosla, Vice President

Mr. Nawal Khosla has over 30 years of experience in Manpower management and deployment practices. Being the Vice-President, he has been the backbone of our organisation since its inception. His perseverence and dilligence efforts towards handling manpower and also all other matters realting to this aspect have made him well approached and effective in his approach. At R.K. International, he heads all the initial stages of deployment of candidates.

Mr. Dev Khosla, Senior Technical Manager

Mr. Dev Khosla is very meticulous and sharp when it comes to zeroing down the best possible person for the job. His technical knowledge and analytical abilities have always been the right source of advice for our clients. He knows what exactly is required by the clients and helps them in search for the right candidates. He keeps himself updated with the new technicalities, tools and selection procedures that occur and keeps it fast paced always.

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Our Administrative Team

Mr. A. I. S. Nair, Manager Administration

Mr. A.I.S Nair has been associated with R.K International for almost more 15 years. A gifted writer and presenter, Mr. Nair has delivered tremendous written work for the organization to hundreds of clients across the world. He has seen R.K. International evolve through years and has been an intergral part of it. From handling clients queries to handling the day to day administrative work, he heads it all. Very patient and reliant, Mr. Nair does his job well and makes sure that all the departments within the organisation are working in synchronisation.

Mr. A. K. Tandon, Human Resources Manager

Mr. A. K. Tandon has also been associated with the organization for almost 20 years and been a part of the growth it has witnessed over the years. His good HR skills have only bettered and bettered by experience. He has dedicated himself to find the best suitable candidate for the job. His assistance helps candidates to find a job that well suits them after going through the entire initial process of shortlisting, personal meetings and interviews and then recommending and shortlisting them. He does all that is within his means to help those who approach him with calm and perseverance.

Mr. S. Pillai, Process Manager

The association of Mr. S. Pillai dates long back to more than 25 years. Mr. Pillai handles the entire deployment and immigration process at R.K. Interntional. His vast experience in handling documentations and visa procedures have indeed ensured that the candidates are always at ease for their visa processing. He well integrates the entire immigration process from arranging airline reservation for the selected personnel, informing them about their date of departure, flight number and time to assisting them till they actually embark on the aircraft.

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About Our Services

R.K. International (R.K.I), is one of the reputed manpower consultants and exporters established in India and approved by Ministry of Labour, Government of India, New Delhi, vide registration No. 000384 / DEL / PER / 1000+/3/93/84 DATED 3rd June 1984 and renewed vide Registration No. 3907/ DEL / PART / 1000+ / 3 / 6414 / 03 dated 13th November 2003 and are enjoying excellent reputation worldwide. We are engaged in providing manpower services since 1978 though issuance of registration certificate introduced by Government of India in 1984. R.K.I occupies a vanguard position and is one of the premier agencies to meet all manpower needs of our overseas clients for any type of project located anywhere.

R.K. International has tremendous experience in sourcing and deploying most competent work force in all spheres to internationally reputed clients. R.K.I specializes in identifying, evaluating and placing the right people to meet our clients` specific requirements. Our workforce spread over India has one mission to fulfill -- to find the right people to meet our client`s specific requirements - in the particular rung that you have a need and at the specific locations where you need people. From our experience we have leared that every company has its own culture, values and expectations of its employees. The better we understand you the easier it is to tailor our search and narrow down the field of candidates so that the rates of conversion is higher.

Our strength is our people. Their accumulated knowledge base and expertise in diverse fields has enabled us to provide strategic support to our clients, which include a number of Fortune 500 companies. We, at R.K.I partner with you to solve your short term and long term business objectives. Once we understand your requirement we are able to source the people with the right skill set, aptitude, attitude and commitment to help you achieve your goals.

We meet the requirements of our clients who need unskilled, semi-skilled and highly skilled professionals to be deployed across the world to execute projects within desired deadlines.

Our client relationships are informed by trust, discretion and confidentiality. We are absolutely focused on, and dedicated to, the long-term success of our clients without compromising the careers of our candidates.

R.K.I has tremendous experience in sourcing and deploying most competent workers in all spheres to internationally reputed clients in the following fields:

1. Medical / Paramedical

Consultants, Specialists, Residents, General Physicians in all branches besides Staff Nurses, Technicians, Chemists etc.

2. Engineering Personnel

Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Instrumentation, Chemical, Architectural, Aeronautical, Marine, Telecommunications in the field of designing, execution, planning / scheduling, operation & maintenance etc.

3. Computer Personnel

E.D.P. Manager, System Analyst, Programmers, Software and Hardware Engineers and Technicians and Operators.

4. Others

Hotel & Industrial Catering. Accounting Personnel and others.

Every successful business is powered by a workforce of dedicated employees. Allow us to power your winning team.

Our Associate Offices

Apart from our Head Office at Delhi, we also have our associate offices located at various parts of our country and neighbouring countries. Our associated offices are located at Cochin (Kerala), Madras (Tamil Nadu), Bangalore (Karnataka), Hyderabad (Andhra Pradesh), Tonk (Rajasthan), Jalandhar (Punjab) and Kathmandu (Nepal).

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

All of the expertise behind Beleza Revelada did not develop overnight. Professional photographer Gina Stocco was raised in Canada and spent part of her childhood in the U.S.A. She pursued her creative passion by studying Art at Connestoga University where she developed her photography talent and graduated ready for a career with her camera. In 2001, Ms. Stocco was invited to work as a chief photographer for a leading lingerie company, Fruit de la Passion. Ms. Stocco has also worked as a photojournalist associated with Fenaj, Arfoc, International Press, and I.F.J. She has worked at Futura Press, Folha de Sao Paulo, Comercio Jornal and lately works for …….

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by Gina Stocco

CAVE 15

(DASAVATARA OR TEN INCARNATIONS OF VISNU)

Probably for the first time at Ellora, the architects had gained enough expertise; they experimented by carving out a monolith structure out of the solid rock mass. This led to the finishing of the front mandapa of this cave which is two storeyed. This mandapa also has a historical record of the Rashtrakuta king Dantidurga, which is mentioned above. The inscription mentions the genealogy of some of the kings of the Rashtrakuta dynasty. They are Dantivarma I (c. A.D. 600-630), his son Indraraja I (630-650), his son Govindaraja (650-675), his son Karkaraja I (675-700), his son Indraraja II (700-725), his son Dantidurga Khadgavaloka (725-757). Interestingly, the sculptural representations on the pillars of top storey are Buddhist, while the lower part is Brahmanical.

The first storey is reached by a flight of steps, which has eleven sunken compartments in which huge bas-reliefs of various gods and goddesses are carved. They are Ganapati, Parvati, Surya, Siva and Parvati, Mahisasuramardini, Ardhanarisvara, Bhavani or Durga, Ganapati, Uma in penance attitude, Ardhanarisvara and Kali.

The second storey measures 109 feet by 95 feet inclusive of a shrine of linga and an antechamber. The side walls of the front chamber have deep recesses adorned with huge sculptural reliefs. The sculptural representations are of Gajasamharamurti, Nataraja, Bhavani or Durga, Siva and Parvati playing the game of chausar, Kalyanasundara murti, Ravanugraha murti on the north wall. The back wall has Markandeya anugraha murti, Gangadhara murti, Ganapati, Parvati, Gajalakshmi, Vishnu, Lingodhbhava Siva and Tripurantaka murti. The south wall has the representations of Govardhanadhari Vishnu, Sheshasayi Vishnu, Vishnu on garuda, Varaha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu, Vamana Trivikrama avatara of Vishnu, Narasimha avatara of Vishnu.

(Archaeological Survey of India)

___________________________________

Ellora (\e-ˈlȯr-ə\, Marathi: वेरूळ Vērūḷa), is an archaeological site, 29 km North-West of the city of Aurangabad in the Indian state of Maharashtra built by the Rashtrakuta dynasty. It is also known as Elapura (in the Rashtrakuta literature-Kannada). Well known for its monumental caves, Ellora is a World Heritage Site. Ellora represents the epitome of Indian rock-cut architecture. The 34 "caves" are actually structures excavated out of the vertical face of the Charanandri hills. Buddhist, Hindu and Jain rock-cut temples and viharas and mathas were built between the 5th century and 10th century. The 12 Buddhist (caves 1–12), 17 Hindu (caves 13–29) and 5 Jain (caves 30–34) caves, built in proximity, demonstrate the religious harmony prevalent during this period of Indian history. It is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.

ETYMOLOGY

Ellora, also called Verula or Elura, is the cave form of the Ancient name Elapura.

HISTORY

Ellora is known for Hindu, Buddhist and Jain cave temples built during (6th and 9th centuries) the rule of the Kalachuri, Chalukya and Rashtrakuta dynasties. The Jagannatha Sabha a group of five Jain cave temples of 9th century built by Rashtrakuta.

THE BUDDHIST CAVES

These caves were built during the 5th-7th century. It was initially thought that the Buddhist caves were one of the earliest structures, created between the fifth and eighth centuries, with caves 1-5 in the first phase (400-600) and 6-12 in the later phase (mid 7th-mid 8th), but now it is clear to the modern scholars that some of the Hindu caves (27,29,21,28,19,26,20,17 and 14) precede these caves.[citation needed] The earliest Buddhist cave is Cave 6, followed by 5,2,3,5 (right wing), 4,7,8,10 and 9. Caves 11 and 12 were the last. All the Buddhist caves were constructed between 630-700.

These structures consist mostly of viharas or monasteries: large, multi-storeyed buildings carved into the mountain face, including living quarters, sleeping quarters, kitchens, and other rooms. Some of these monastery caves have shrines including carvings of Gautama Buddha, bodhisattvas and saints. In many of these caves, sculptors have endeavoured to give the stone the look of wood.

Most famous of the Buddhist caves is cave 10, (refer map) a chaitya hall (chandrashala) or 'Vishvakarma cave', popularly known as the 'Carpenter's Cave'. Beyond its multi-storeyed entry is a cathedral-like stupa hall also known as chaitya, whose ceiling has been carved to give the impression of wooden beams. At the heart of this cave is a 15-foot statue of Buddha seated in a preaching pose. Amongst other Buddhist caves, all of the first nine (caves 1–9) are monasteries. The last two caves, Do Tal (cave 11) and Tin Tal (cave 12) have three stories.

CAVE 10

Cave 10 is a vihara with eight cells, four in the back wall and four in the right wall. It had a portico in the front with a cell. Possibly served as a granary for other viharas.

THE VISHWAKARMA

The Vishwakarma (Cave 10) is the only chaitya griha amongst the Buddhist group of caves. It is locally known as Vishwakarma or Sutar ka jhopda "carpenter's hut". It follows the pattern of construction of Caves 19 and 26 of Ajanta. On stylistic grounds, the date of construction of this cave is assigned to 700 A.D. The chaitya once had a high screen wall, which is ruined at present. At the front is a rock-cut court, which is entered through a flight of steps. On either side are pillared porticos with chambers in their back walls. These were probably intended to have subsidiary shrines but not completed. The pillared verandah of the chaitya has a small shrine at either end and a single cell in the far end of the back wall. The corridor columns have massive squarish shafts and ghata-pallava (vase and foliage) capitals. The main hall is apsidal on plan and is divided into a central nave and side aisles by 28 octagonal columns with plain bracket capitals. In the apsidal end of the chaitya hall is a stupa on the face of which a colossal 3.30 m high seated Buddha in vyakhyana mudra (teaching posture) is carved. A large Bodhi tree is carved at the back. The hall has a vaulted roof in which ribs have been carved in the rock imitating the wooden ones.

THE HINDU CAVES

The Hindu caves were constructed between the middle of sixth century to the end of the eighth century. The early caves (caves 17–29) were constructed during the Kalachuri period. The work first commenced in Caves 28, 27 and 19. These were followed by two most impressive caves constructed in the early phase - Caves 29 and 21. Along with these two, work was underway at Caves 20 and 26, and slightly later at Caves 17, 19 and 28. The caves 14, 15 and 16 were constructed during the Rashtrakuta period. The work began in Caves 14 and 15 and culminated in Cave 16. All these structures represent a different style of creative vision and execution skills. Some were of such complexity that they required several generations of planning and co-ordination to complete.

THE KAILASANATHA TEMPLE

Cave 16, also known as the Kailasa temple, is the unrivaled centerpiece of Ellora. This is designed to recall Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva – looks like a freestanding, multi-storeyed temple complex, but it was carved out of one single rock, and covers an area double the size of Parthenon in Athens. Initially the temple was covered with white plaster thus even more increasing the similarity to snow-covered Mount Kailash.

All the carvings are done in more than one level. A two-storeyed gateway resembling a South Indian Gopura opens to reveal a U-shaped courtyard. The courtyard is edged by columned galleries three storeys high. The galleries are punctuated by huge sculpted panels, and alcoves containing enormous sculptures of a variety of deities. Originally flying bridges of stone connected these galleries to central temple structures, but these have fallen.

Within the courtyard are three structures. As is traditional in Shiva temples, the first is a large image of the sacred bull Nandi in front of the central temple. The central temple - Nandi Mantapa or Mandapa - houses the Lingam. The Nandi Mandapa stands on 16 pillars and is 29.3 m high. The base of the Nandi Mandapa has been carved to suggest that life-sized elephants are holding the structure aloft. A living rock bridge connects the Nandi Mandapa to the Shiva temple behind it. The temple itself is a tall pyramidal structure reminiscent of a South Indian Dravidian temple. The shrine – complete with pillars, windows, inner and outer rooms, gathering halls, and an enormous lingam at its heart – carved from living stone, is carved with niches, pilasters, windows as well as images of deities, mithunas (erotic male and female figures) and other figures. Most of the deities at the left of the entrance are Shaivaite (followers of Shiva) while on the right hand side the deities are Vaishnavaites (followers of Vishnu). There are two Dhvajastambhas (pillars with the flagstaff) in the courtyard. The grand sculpture of Ravana attempting to lift Mount Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva, with his full might is a landmark in Indian art. The construction of this cave was a feat of human genius – it entailed the removal of 200,000 tonnes of rock, and took 100 years to complete.

The temple is a splendid achievement of Rashtrakuta Karnata architecture. This project was started by Krishna I (757–773) of the Rashtrakuta dynasty that ruled from Manyakheta in present day Karnataka state. His rule had also spread to southern India, hence this temple was excavated in the prevailing style. Its builders modelled it on the lines of the Virupaksha Temple in Pattadakal. Being a south Indian style temple, it does not have a shikhara common to north Indian temples. – The Guide to the Architecture of the Indian Subcontinent, 1996, Takeo Kamiya, Japan Architects Academy and archaeological Survey of India.

THE DASHAVATARA

The Dashavatara (Cave 15) was begun as a Buddhist monastery. It has an open court with a free-standing monolithic mandapa at the middle and a two-storeyed excavated temple at the rear. The layout of the temple is closely related to caves 11 and 12. Large sculptural panels between the wall columns on the upper floor illustrate a wide range of themes, which include the ten avatars of Vishnu. An inscription of grant of Dantidurga is found on the back wall of the front mandapa. According to Coomaraswamy, the finest relief of this cave is the one depicting the death of Hiranyakashipu, where Vishnu in man-lion (Narasimha) form, emerges from a pillar to lay a fatal hand upon the shoulder of Hiranyakashipu.

OTHER HINDU CAVES

CAVE 21

Other notable Hindu caves are the Rameshvara (Cave 21), which has figurines of river goddesses Ganga and Yamuna at the entrance and the Dhumar Lena (Cave 29) whose design is similar to the cave temple on Elephanta Island near Mumbai. Two other caves, the Ravan ki Khai (Cave 14) and the Nilkantha (Cave 22) also have several sculptures. The rest of the Hindu caves, which include the Kumbharvada (Cave 25) and the Gopilena (Cave 27) have no significant sculptures.

The five Jain caves at Ellora belong to the ninth and tenth centuries. They all belong to the Digambara sect. Jain caves reveal specific dimensions of Jain philosophy and tradition. They reflect a strict sense of asceticism – they are not relatively large as compared to others, but they present exceptionally detailed art works. The most remarkable Jain shrines are the Chhota Kailash (cave 30), the Indra Sabha (cave 32) and the Jagannath Sabha (cave 33). Cave 31 is an unfinished four-pillared hall and a shrine. Cave 34 is a small cave, which can be approached through an opening on the left side of Cave 33. Amongst other devotional carvings, a place called samvatsarana can be found in Elora caves. Samvatsarana is of special interest to Jains, as it is a hall where the tirthankara preaches after attaining omniscience.

THE INDRA SABHA

The Indra Sabha (Cave 32) is a two storeyed cave with one more monolithic shrine in its court. It has a very fine carving of the lotus flower on the ceiling. It got the appellation "Indra Sabha" probably it is significantly ornate and also because of the sculpture of the yaksha (dedicated attendant deity) Matanga on an elephant, which was wrongly identified as that of Indra. On the upper level of the double-storied shrine excavated at the rear of the court, an U image of Ambika, the yakshini of Neminath, is found seated on her lion under a mango tree, laden with fruits.

OTHER JAIN CAVES

All other Jain caves are also characterized by intricate detailing. Many of the structures had rich paintings in the ceilings - fragments of which are still visible.

GEOLOGY OF ELLORA

Ellora occupies a relatively flat region of the Western Ghats. Ancient volcanic activity in this area created many layered basalt formations, known as Deccan Traps. During the Cretaceous, one such volcanic hill formed on the southwest-facing side of Ellora. Its vertical face made access to many layers of rock formations easier, enabling architects to pick basalt with finer grains for more detailed sculpting.

INSCRIPTIONS AT ELLORA

Several inscriptions at Ellora range from 6th century to 15th century. The best known of them is an inscription of Rashtrakuta Dantidurga (c. 753-57 A.D.) on the back wall of the front mandapa of Cave 15, which gives an account of his conquests. Inscriptions on the Kailash temple itself range from 9th to 15th century. Jain cave Jagannatha Sabha has 3 inscriptions that give the names of monks and donors. A Parshvanth temple on the hill has a 11th-century inscription that gives the name of the donor from Vardhanapura.

The Great Kailasa (Cave 16) is attributed to Krishna I (c. 757-83 A.D.), the successor and uncle of Dantidurga. A copper plate grant by Karka II (c. 812-13 A.D.) narrates that a great edifice was built on a hill by Krishnaraja at Elapura (Ellora).

The Ellora caves, unlike Ajanta, were never lost. There have been several written records that indicate that these caves were visited regularly. The earliest is that of the Arab geographer Al-Mas‘udi of the 10th century A.D. In 1352 A.D. Sultan Hasan Gangu Bahmani, who camped at the site and visited the caves. The others are by Firishta, Thevenot (1633–67), Niccolao Manucci (1653-1708), Charles Warre Malet (1794), and Seely (1824)

WIKIPEDIA

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In 1993, and again in 1994, I was invited to attend international conferences on Geology, my area of professional expertise. I chaired a few technical sessions, presented a couple of scientific papers, and edited the proceedings of both meetings. That last bit kept me busy for about 2 years after the end of the conferences, and resulted in the publication of two volumes totalling over 1200 pages of valuable scientific information. I'm quite proud of that work!

In this set, I will not discuss the work that I did, but rather show what I was able to see and capture of the Chinese way of life and of the scenery during the six weeks combined that I spent in the country, including in Hong Kong and Macau, which were still British and Portuguese colonies at that time.

Unlike political or economic gatherings, geological meetings nearly always include field trips that allow the participants to see for themselves some aspects of the geology and/or technical capability of the host country. Usually, those field trips focus on one or more of the following: 1. Visits to technical institutions, usually their laboratories; 2. Visits of important mineral areas or mining operations; 3. See significant geological phenomena often renowned for their uniqueness and/or great beauty.

One interesting aspect of these field trips is that they usually take you to places that are outside the usual tourist circuit so that there is a real opportunity to see the way of life pretty well in an unaltered raw form. This was particularly significant in China, a country that, at that time at least, was still very much closed to foreign visitors.

Both conferences were held in Beijing. In 1993, the field trip consisted of a 12-hour train ride to a city called Luoyang in western Henan Province, followed by bus rides first to Lingbao, also in Henan Province, and then to Xian, the capital of Shaanxi Province. Luoyang and Lingbao probably don't mean much to most people, but Xian, of course, is where the famous army of terracotta warriors was discovered and is currently displayed. This field trip explored a short segment of the Yellow River watershed and brought together a busload of geochemist who were interested mostly in the so-called Loess Plateau, an unusual form of silty sediments deposited by wind, which covers a huge area (640,000 km2) of central China.

In total, we covered about 350 km by bus between Luoyang and Xian with various stops along the way. It took us 5 days to do this (Sept 7 to 11, 1993) at a very leisurely pace. From Xian, we flew to Guangzhou (formerly Canton) and then by train to Hong Kong. While in Hong Kong, I spent 5 days visiting the colony as well as Macau.

In 1994 (red placemarks), the train ride from Beijing to Chenzhou took over 24 hours. Here, and around another town called Guiyang, we visited some of the large tin and tungsten mineral deposits that China is very famous for. Then we were bussed to Guilin, about 300 km west of Chenzhou, which, in my opinion, is one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Since both the 1993 and 1994 trips were done only one year apart, and several of the places that I visited are the same (e.g. Beijing, Hong Kong), I will present both trips in the same set, which will allow me to select the best shots and, as a result, raise the overall quality of the presentation. Something I should add is that all of the pics were shot on film and scanned using a Nikon Supercoolscan 5000. The 1993 pics were shot on negative (Kodacolor) film using either a Nikon SLR or a cheaper Nikon point-and-shoot. In 1994, everything was shot on positive (Kodachrome slide) film using the same SLR and point-and-shoot cameras as in 1993. I don't think that there was significant deterioration of the original film material in the nearly 20 years between the shooting and the scanning, but I am glad that these precious pictures are now safely in digital format deep inside my hard drive.

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

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KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

In January 2021, President Biden released the National Strategy for the COVID-19 Response and Pandemic Preparedness. The plan is driven by science, data, and public health to improve the effectiveness of our nation’s fight against COVID-19. The plan calls on all parts of the federal government to contribute resources—facilities, personnel, and expertise—to contain the pandemic. Chief among the efforts is a whole-of-government response to stand up federally supported community vaccination centers across the country. In coordination with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has deployed employees to locations around the country to help distribute and administer COVID-19 vaccinations.

USDA photo by Natalia Aponte-Rivera

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

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KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

I claim no major expertise in cooking, but love experimenting and trying, and with the internet as a cookbook, you can always find something to help. To be blunt, I might grossly characterize "cooking" as mostly different ways to apply heat to food and tossing in seasoning.

It is far from precise, and there are more ways to go right than wrong. I differ in approach from jen who states I Can't Cook.

So tonight's kitchen laboratory made use of fresh bok choy I am growing in my vegetable garden- it is hardly the stuff you see in supermarkets with big white stalks, but the leaves are healthy.

The first batch of recipes I scanned online were variations on using the leaves as an oriental salad, so I aimed for more of a stir fry approach, loosely based on one for Stir Fried Baby Bok Choy.

This was one where I just tried using whatever I could find in the kitchen and spice rack. So I chopped the leaves and stalks, along with some onion and garlic.

I started sauteing the onions and garlic in olive oil, tossed in some sesame seed and coriander, some crumbled walnuts, then put in the cut up bok choy stalks, and lastly the leaves. I dashed in some soy sauce and kept it all in motion.

I thought I had way too many leaves but the shriveled up to almost nothing.

Damn, it was quite tasty!

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan

Female patient choosing implants, Canon 1Ds mark III

KAKEGAWA, Japan – Swirling sand obscures the sunlit sky as a UH-1 “Huey” helicopter touches down on a freshly cut baseball field. Mere moments pass before the Huey’s Japan Ground Self-Defense Force crew chief dismounts from his metallic steed and sprints toward four U.S. Army Soldiers bearing a stretcher. The crew chief’s commanding shout cuts through the roar of rotor blades, springing his American partners into action. With swift, expert precision, the stretcher bearers carry their wounded comrade—a mannequin sporting an Army Combat Uniform—to the Huey.

Casualty evacuation was one of the many training missions orchestrated during Shizuoka Prefecture’s annual Comprehensive Disaster Drill conducted here Sept. 4, 2016. The drill demonstrated the emergency response capabilities of a diverse collection of local, regional, national and international organizations. Its static displays, interactive classes and practical workshops conducted throughout Kakegawa also provided lifesaving lessons for the city’s citizens.

“The people of Shizuoka Prefecture have organized this annual exercise for 35 years,” said Yuka Ogura, a supervisor for the prefectural government’s Emergency Countermeasures Division. “Although the drill’s size and scope has become increasingly complex with the inclusion of specialized government agencies and advanced equipment, the individual residents play the most pivotal role in preparing for the worst.”

Among the participants stood a dozen Soldiers assigned to U.S. Army Japan, I Corps (Forward) and Public Health Command-Pacific. The group packed two Humvees with fuel, rations and medical supplies before embarking on their 120-mile journey from Camp Zama to Kakegawa.

“The U.S. Army has actively participated in this drill since 2010,” said Maj. Donald Kim, U.S. Army liaison officer for to the JGSDF's Eastern Army and Central Readiness Force. “It demonstrates our capabilities in humanitarian response assistance by testing our troops’ expertise in first aid, supply distribution, convoy operations and medical evacuation. Our participation also sends a strong message to our Japanese partners that we are willing and able to provide immediate support when disaster strikes.”

“Since the great east Japan earthquake and tsunami [in 2011], local communities have a greater understanding and openness to collaborate with international agencies in the aftermath of a major disaster,” added Ogura. “The U.S. Army has proved on many occasions that it has the talent and resources to respond to any emergency in the country.”

Throughout the exercise, the American Soldiers worked closely with their Japan Ground Self-Defense Force partners from the 34th Infantry Regiment, Eastern Army, JGSDF. The respective units set up their base of operations at a local gym where they combined resources to coordinate convoy routes, establish mobile communication sites, and set up supply distribution points.

“The JGSDF and U.S. Army have specialized equipment and highly trained personnel that many of our civilian counterparts cannot afford,” said JGSDF Sgt. 1st Class Miura Hatoshi, a squad leader in the 2nd Company, 34th Infantry Regiment. “However, these assets are practically worthless if we don’t properly use them. That’s why it’s essential that we seize every opportunity to train together so we may make the right decisions together.”

The drill concluded with a closing ceremony at a demolished neighborhood used as a training site for search, rescue and recovery operations. Standing alongside hundreds of service members, firefighters, police officers and first responders, Heita Kawakatsu, governor of Shizuoka Prefecture, expressed his appreciation for the American participants.

“The citizens of Shizuoka Prefecture and I are grateful for the support from the U.S. Army and Marines,” said Kawakatsu. “Your skill and professionalism were second only to your care and compassion.”

As the troops shook hands and exchanged small tokens of appreciation with their gracious hosts, Kim reflected on his team’s immense effort, energy and enthusiasm.

“I’m proud of these men,” said Kim. “Many of them have Military Occupation Specialties far separated from the desired skillsets for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions. However, their proficiency in their basic warrior tasks and their eagerness to learn from the experts shows our Japanese partners that they can count on us anytime, anywhere.”

Photo by Sgt. John L. Carkeet IV, U.S. Army Japan