Pacific Partnership 2024-2 Wraps Up Milestone Mission in Kosrae, Micronesia

The nine-day Kosrae mission recently concluded, bringing together over 40 participants from Australia and the United States to bolster humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HA/DR) preparedness in the Indo-Pacific region.

“The Pacific Partnership team is honored to have returned to Kosrae for the first time since 2011 to conduct the largest annual U.S. Navy multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission in the Indo-Pacific,” stated U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Brent DeVore, commander of Joint Region Marianas and U.S. Naval Forces Marianas. “We value the deep-rooted relationships between Australia, the U.S., and the Federated States of Micronesia. It’s heartening to witness our camaraderie flourish.”

Throughout the mission, the team executed 21 medical events, including optometry exams and distributing over 550 pairs of eyeglasses, set up dental chairs, hosted three community health initiatives training 110 members in lifesaving techniques, and conducted numerous expert exchanges.

“Pacific Partnership has demonstrated its commitment to the well-being of our friends and neighbors,” remarked Hon. Jennifer Johnson, U.S. Ambassador to the Federated States of Micronesia. “On behalf of the American people, I express my gratitude. The impact on the people of Kosrae is profound.”

The U.S. Coast Guard led boating safety workshops, imparting essential know-how for maritime activities to the Kosrae communities at the host nation’s invitation.

The outreach team organized 19 community initiatives, including school visits, U.S. Navy recruitment events, an interfaith dialogue session, and concerts featuring the Pacific Partnership Band, with performers from the U.S. Pacific Fleet Band and the Royal Australian Army Band.

Engineering efforts included expert exchanges on coastal erosion and water purification, as well as site surveys aimed at enhancing Kosrae’s drinking water infrastructure. Additionally, the team constructed a playground at a local elementary school.

“Pacific Partnership 2024-2 in Kosrae has exceeded all expectations in terms of positive outcomes for my people,” stated Kosrae Gov. Tulensa Palik. “On behalf of the people of Kosrae, I extend my thanks for a job well done.”

Now marking its 20th iteration, the Pacific Partnership series remains the U.S. Navy’s premier annual multinational HA/DR mission in the Indo-Pacific. The initiative aims to strengthen regional cooperation and disaster response capabilities, enhance security and stability, and build lasting friendships in the Indo-Pacific.