As we prepare to depart and I reflect on this amazing adventure in learning and discovery, I think of how hard 123 people on the ship have worked to bring this project to fruition.

Every day on 12 hour shifts for two months the entire JR team from the captain and crew, drillers, toolpushers, catering staff, engineers, computer specialists, scientists and lab technicians worked together like a well oiled machine doing their bit for this well planned project.  The attitude on the ship has always been a collaborative one.  This has been refreshing to experience.

I am reminded of my favorite New Zealand Maori proverb or whakatauki– sayings that reflect the thoughts, values and advice of past generations.

He aha te mea nui o te ao?
He tangata! He tangata! He tangata!

What is the most important thing in the world?
It is people! It is people! It is people!

Behind every well-oiled machine is the fuel.  On shore we have an amazing support crew who have advised, encouraged and funded this trip and helped to make things happen.  Thanks to you all for making this possible!

• National Science Foundation (NSF), United States
• Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), Japan
• European Consortium for Ocean Research Drilling (ECORD)
• Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), People’s Republic of China
• Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM)
• Australian Research Council (ARC) and New Zealand Institute for Geological and Nuclear Sciences (GNS), Australian/New Zealand Consortium
• Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES), India

Lastly, thanks to all the friends and families who have supported us.  You are a big part of the JR Team too!