USNS Burlington Docks in Cartagena for Crucial Continuing Promise 2024 Mission

The USNS Burlington has docked in Cartagena, marking the fourth mission stop for Continuing Promise 2024 (CP24). In collaboration with the Colombian Navy, government agencies, and non-government organizations (NGOs), the crew will host several impactful activities, including seminars, training sessions, and medical care sites. Since its inception in 2007, Continuing Promise has made regular visits to Colombia, affirming the strong ties between the two nations.

Lt. Cmdr. Zachary Smith, mission commander for Continuing Promise 2024, spoke highly of the ties between the United States and Colombia. “The relationship between our two nations stretches over two centuries of shared values of democracy, prosperity, freedom, and maritime and regional security,” he said. “Continuing Promise is a prime demonstration of the power of example, which in many cases is stronger than an example of power.”

A contingent of thirty U.S. Navy medical professionals, specializing in various fields such as dental, family and geriatric medicine, optometry, nursing, pharmacy, biomedical repair, laboratory, and radiology, will engage in partner-led medical care events and expert exchanges across Cartagena. Joining them will be nine medical professionals from the South Carolina Army National Guard as part of the State Partnership Program, which annually carries out over 1,000 events in partner nations.

Furthermore, four U.S. Army veterinary professionals will extend their expertise to the Colombian Navy in working dog care and surgical support. Their contributions will bolster partner-led veterinary events significantly.

A unique addition to this year’s mission is the U.S. Fleet Forces Band, “Uncharted Waters.” The band will perform and conduct music clinics at seven different venues during the stop. Musician 2nd Class César Pimentel-Ortiz expressed enthusiasm for the mission, noting its multi-faceted impact on the community. “Not only from the musical standpoint but through all the things like medical, veterinary, it’s so much impact that we bring to these communities,” he said.

In a show of joint efforts, ten U.S. Navy engineering professionals will support smaller construction projects at Institución Educativa Europa and Centro de Salud La Candelaria. “Since we have been partnering with these different countries, they have been very respectful,” said U.S. Navy Construction Electrician 3rd Class Cyera Garrett from Naval Mobile Construction Battalion One. “They have shown us their way of understanding the tasks, and vice versa, we show them our understanding. With the two together, we compromise and find the best way for us to complete projects.”

NGOs and interagency partners are also involved, supporting Colombian Navy-led humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training exercises. Organizations like Santa Alianza, Pacific Disaster Center, University of Miami, and Pacific Response Group will be part of this collaborative effort.

The mission will also feature U.S. Navy Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) professionals who will host seminars, organize a joint sports day, and conduct roundtable discussions on gender-based violence. This aligns with the UN initiative that began with UNSCR 1325 in 2000, aimed at including women in security planning for a more peaceful world.

After a week-long stay in Colombia, the USNS Burlington will proceed to Panama for the final mission stop of Continuing Promise 2024.

CP24 is a crucial component of U.S. Southern Command’s Enduring Promise initiative, aimed at enhancing partner nation capacity and interoperability in the region. It underscores the United States’ enduring commitment to friendship, partnership, and solidarity with the Americas.