Pacific Partnership 2024 Mission Launches in Federated States of Micronesia

On September 4, 2024, a multinational team representing five Pacific nations commenced the fourth mission stop of Pacific Partnership 2024-2 (PP24-2) in Yap, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM).

Yap Governor Charles Chieng hosted key leaders, including U.S. Navy Capt. Daniel Keeler, PP24-2 mission commander, and Royal Australian Air Force Wing Cmdr. Scott Minchin, PP24-2 deputy mission commander. The engagement, held at the governor’s office, marked the first official event of the mission.

The Yap mission, running from September 4-10, gathers around 70 participants from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States. Their primary goal is to enhance humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR) preparedness in the Indo-Pacific region.

Capt. Daniel Keeler emphasized the significance of the mission, stating, “The U.S. has a long-standing relationship with Yap, reflecting our deep commitment to our Pacific neighbors. Given Yap’s vulnerability to natural disasters, the Pacific Partnership team is dedicated to helping prepare for and manage these emergencies.”

The collaborative training will involve the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Army Civil Affairs, Yap Disaster Control Office, and various other organizations. Workshops will focus on emergency operations, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance. Participants include Center for Excellence in Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance, International Organization for Migration, Catholic Relief Services, and FSM Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Emergency Management.

Additionally, the Pacific Partnership Band, featuring musicians from the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band and the Royal Australian Army Band, will engage in community performances.

Medical providers from the mission will collaborate with local healthcare professionals at Yap State Hospital, Ulithi atoll, and Fais Island. Their efforts will center on optometry exams, dental screenings, community health engagements, and spay and neuter clinics for pets.

U.S. Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia, Hon. Jennifer Johnson, expressed enthusiasm, noting, “This year, the people of Yap will see first-hand meaningful engagements with the mission team, a stellar example of the enduring cooperation between our two nations.”

The concept of the Pacific Partnership began after the December 2004 “Boxing Day” tsunami, which saw the U.S. mobilize substantial military assets for humanitarian relief. The U.S. Navy initiated the first Pacific Partnership mission in 2006 with the goal of strengthening disaster response capabilities and international relations.

Pacific Partnership, now in its 20th year, remains the U.S. Navy’s largest annual multinational HA/DR preparedness mission in the Indo-Pacific. It aims to improve regional interoperability, bolster security and stability, and foster lasting friendships in the region.