Earlier this morning, an 8.9 magnitude earthquake struck Japan claiming untold numbers of lives and causing horrific property damage.  House Armed Services Committee Chairman Howard P. “Buck” McKeon reacted to the devastating earthquake with a statement released Friday morning:

“While the full extent of the damage is not yet known, my thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this tragic disaster.  As friends and allies, the American people stand ready to assist the people of Japan as the recovery begins.

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“I am relieved that initial reports indicate that there was no significant damage to American military installations or any loss of U.S personnel stationed in Japan and throughout the region.  As Chairman of the Armed Services Committee, I will be working closely with the Department of Defense to ensure our military personnel are able to assist in disaster relief efforts.

“I will be following developments closely, especially as tsunami alerts remain in effect in my home state of California. I urge all coastal residents to make necessary preparations for the expected waves.”