Pacific Partnership 2024-2 Celebrates Successful Mission in Kosrae, Micronesia

A joint team from Australia and the United States wrapped up the final mission stop of Pacific Partnership 2024-2 (PP24-2) in Kosrae on September 23.

The nine-day stay in Kosrae saw 40 participants from both countries working together to boost humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR) preparedness in the Indo-Pacific region.

“It’s an honor to return to Kosrae after more than a decade for this significant humanitarian mission,” said U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Brent DeVore. “The friendship between Australia, the U.S., and the Federated States of Micronesia is invaluable, and it’s a pleasure to witness this growing bond.”

Throughout the mission, the team conducted 21 medical events, including optometry exams and distributing over 550 pairs of eyeglasses. The team also installed dental chairs, held three community health events, trained 110 community members in lifesaving skills, and exchanged expertise in various disciplines.

U.S. Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia, Hon. Jennifer Johnson, commended the efforts. “Pacific Partnership has focused on the well-being of our friends and neighbors, making us all stronger,” she said. “On behalf of the American people, thank you for your impactful work here in Kosrae.”

The U.S. Coast Guard, at the host nation’s invitation, conducted boating safety workshops to share their knowledge and best practices for maritime activities with Kosrae communities.

The outreach team organized 19 community engagements, including school visits, U.S. Navy recruiting events, an interfaith dialogue session, and concerts by the Pacific Partnership Band, which features musicians from the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band and the Royal Australian Army Band.

Engineering efforts included expert exchanges on coastal erosion and water purification. The team also surveyed sites for potential drinking water infrastructure improvements in Kosrae and assembled a playground at a local elementary school.

Kosrae Gov. Tulensa Palik expressed his gratitude for the mission’s success. “Pacific Partnership 2024-2 has exceeded all expectations in its positive outcomes for my people,” he said. “To the team, thank you for a job well done.”

The Pacific Partnership series, now in its 20th year, remains the largest annual multinational HA/DR preparedness mission conducted by the U.S. Navy in the Indo-Pacific. The initiative aims to enhance regional disaster response capabilities, increase security, and foster lasting friendships.