US Sends Aircraft Carrier to Aid Philippines The United States has ordered an aircraft carrier to the sail to the Philippines to provide assistance in the wake of the devastating typhoon that leveled part of the country with thousands feared dead. A Pentagon state says Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel has ordered the aircraft carrier USS George Washington and other U.S. Navy ships "to make best speed for the Republic of the Philippines." The aircraft carrier, which carries 5,000 Sailors and more than 80 aircraft, was in Hong Kong for a port visit. It is expected to reach the Philippines in about two days. The United States said Monday that it is fully committed to helping the Philippines recover from one of the most powerful typhoons on record, and is providing $20 million in immediate aid.