US carco planes carry helicopters to Sri Lanka

The United States says there are more than 13,000 American military personnel giving relief support to nations affected by the Asian tsunami.

Admiral Thomas Fargo, who is commander of the U.S. Pacific Command, said Tuesday more personnel and ships are pouring into the region. He said the military initially dispatched ships that could treat drinking water and that carried medical and engineering supplies.

Admiral Fargo added that the military is looking at sending the hospital ship, Mercy, to the region. He said authorities are considering configuring the ship for humanitarian assistance and staffing it largely with members of non-governmental organizations.

So far, the U.S. military has delivered more than 200 tons of relief supplies. Those supplies and equipment are being delivered by helicopters, cargo planes and ships.