Not so long since the USS Bonhomme Richard changed its course from the Island. But with a sudden change of things, US marines have once again begun arriving for relief work.

The amphibious vessel USS Duluth anchored off the coast of Galle bringing over 100 marines adding to the total of 200 already on ground. The Austin-class ship also carried in three CH-46E Sea Knight helicopters and engineering and earthmoving equipment to be used for relief work. Their main task would be to clear debris and rebuild around 30 bridges washed away by the tsunami. It's also said that the number will likely go up in the coming weeks as the requirement increases.

The USS Bonhomme Richard, which was diverted from our coast, carried around 1,500 marines who are now deployed in Indonesia. It's unlikely that they would be returning any sooner. But even the USS Duluth seems to have only made a temporary stop. The ship will be anchored for a week or so and will be heading to its final destination: Iraq.

Just a week ago, the entire setting of US troops arriving in the island caused a major uproar. But now it appears so that many have realized the country's situation in a much better way, including the big ones. Many responses came in an entirely different form than the last time.

The Americans are very helpful, not just to Sri Lanka but the world. There's no other word but thanks.

It's quite obvious that the decision was mainly influenced by Mr. Powell's recent visit, but moreover the country is in need of some rock-solid ground work, which I believe is moving higher in the priority list.