Military Hands Over Control of Disaster Area

Chile's military has turned security control of earthquake-damaged communities over to the president's reconstruction chief, Cristóbal Lira. But while security and aid efforts are back in civilian hands, the armed forces continue their relief work. Soldiers and sailors are helping with clean up, repair, construction, medical and other efforts. Army troops helped rail workers fix a damaged railroad. The navy's central focus is helping rebuild the port city of Talcahuano. Meanwhile, US Air Force crews that helped airlift supplies have ended their mission. Brazil sent some Black Hawk helicopters to reach remote areas, too.