Pacific Partnership 2024-2 Launches Mission in Kosrae, Federated States of Micronesia

The mission commenced with a key leadership engagement at the Kosrae State governor’s office, attended by Gov. Tulensa Palik, 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 kickoff included eye exams, medical training, dental chair repairs, band performances at Kosrae radio station and Utwe Elementary School, a community outreach event, and a coastal erosion subject matter expert exchange.

The Kosrae mission, running from Sept. 17-23, unites approximately 40 participants from Australia and the United States to bolster humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR) preparedness in the Indo-Pacific.

“The U.S. has a deep-rooted partnership with Kosrae, reflecting the strong bonds we’ve forged through shared experiences with our Pacific family. Acknowledging Kosrae’s vulnerability to natural disasters, the Pacific Partnership team aims to enhance preparedness and manage these emergencies proactively,” said Keeler. “Through collaboration with our Australian partners and the Kosrae community, we aim to strengthen disaster readiness and response, ensuring effective crisis management,” he added.

At the host nation’s invitation, the U.S. Coast Guard will conduct boating safety workshops to share expertise and best practices for at-sea activities in Kosrae communities.

Engineering efforts include subject matter expert exchanges on coastal erosion and water purification, with site surveys to identify potential improvements in Kosrae’s drinking water infrastructure. Additionally, the team will construct a playground at a local elementary school.

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

Medical providers from Pacific Partnership will collaborate with professionals at Kosrae Hospital to deliver specialized medical care. Their focus will cover optometry exams, community health engagements, subject matter exchanges, and medical equipment maintenance and repair.

“This year’s Pacific Partnership in Kosrae is set to deliver significant outcomes for island residents,” said Hon. Ms. Jennifer Johnson, U.S. Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia. “These missions consistently demonstrate what nations can achieve together. On behalf of the U.S. Embassy Team, I wish our Australian and U.S. participants and the people of Kosrae a successful mission,” she concluded.

After the devastating December 2004 “Boxing Day” tsunami, the United States mobilized military assets and personnel for relief efforts in South and Southeast Asia. Capitalizing on the goodwill and lessons learned, the U.S. Navy planned and executed the first Pacific Partnership mission in 2006, aiming for proactive disaster response while strengthening international relationships and security ties.

Currently in its 20th iteration, the Pacific Partnership series stands as the U.S. Navy’s largest annual multinational HA/DR preparedness mission in the Indo-Pacific. It collaborates with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability, and foster enduring friendships in the region.