Is there usually a charge for evacuation from foreign soil?

Question

by your own country during times of armed conflicts?

News reports that evacuation fees will be waived.

"Once U.S.-sponsored travel arrangements are in place, travelers will each be allowed only one small suitcase. ....."



http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/lebanon_update.html

m1a1mikegolf,

The evacuees are NOT being charged. I asked if it was typical or common to charge becuase the mention of no charge.

As for the military, they take an oath to protect The Contsitution from enemies both foreign and domestic. That would mean that anything protected UNDER The Consitution is within their reign of protection. Stupid or not, there are Americans in an area engaged in armed conflict.

Answer 1

The fee is related to a federal law that was passed a couple of years ago. I am not familiar with the specifics of the law, but it allowed charges at a rate of 1 dollar above the cost of commercial travel options. The bag limitation is based on the expected number of evacuees. Some estimates put it at a possible 25000 people.

Answer 2

Congress passed a law forbidding the military from providing 'free' transportation to civilians.

The baggage limitation is because the priority is on getting people out - not property. Two large suitcases means that the helicopter can carry one less person.

Personally, I support the fact that people being evacuated from Lebanon are being charged. It is way too often that military personnel have to risk their lives rescuing people who did something stupid. Going to someplace like Lebanon is knowingly and willingly placing yourself into a dangerous situation.

I would support 'free' evacuations of people who were someplace where it would be reasonable for them to assume was safe. But traveling to somewhere dangerous means that they have to pay the costs.

Answer 3

If they are stupid enough to go to a country that has potential to become a dangerous area, then too bad. Charge them. Don't people take responsibility for their actions anymore? Why does everyone expect the government to provide free things? Don't you understand that when the government controls, or gives you something, you give up your freedom? Life is a risk. Deal with it. This country was founded on the idea of rugged individualism. If you want government control, move to china.

Answer 4

I sure hope not!