U.S. Navy LCDR John Schofield could not ignore the humanitarian responsibility that the tragedy of Haiti demanded. The '96 alumnus is working in the Embassy in Port-Au-Prince to provide aid to the forlorn people of the country. "It is hard work, but it is rewarding," Schofield wrote in a letter to Rev. Father Peter Donohue, O.S.A. And while the conditions in Haiti might be low, Schofield claims the company of fellow Villanova alumni keeps his spirits high. Navy Rear Admiral Patricia Wolfe, '81, and Joe Stavish, '96, have been working alongside Schofield as they pursue a common goal.
Notably, these Villanova alumni have been vital assets to Task Force 48, "a newly established joint logistics hub at Naval Station Guantanamo Bay (GTMO) that is leading the effort to lift humanitarian relief supplies to Haiti," Schofield wrote. While working for Task Force 48, Schofield has helped supply Haitians with food, water, blood donations and medical supplies. The task force also assists in the transportation of personnel, such as the Red Cross, linguists, civil engineers, and the Navy. "It is a complicated effort that requires a wide range of skill sets to include command and control, operations, flight control, cargo handling and logistics," Schofield wrote.
Rest assured that Schofield is representing Villanova well as he provides Haiti with relief. He proudly touts his 'Nova Nation shirt wherever he goes. And while there is still much to be accomplished in Haiti, Schofield's efforts thus far have been nothing short of outstanding.
