“It’s an honor to welcome the Sailors and one of many Navy’s most interesting shipboard medical groups from the USNS Mercy throughout a cease in Guam on their solution to ship humanitarian help to communities most in want,” mentioned Commander Joint Area Marianas Rear Adm. Benjamin Nicholson. “Pacific Partnership bolsters cooperation and larger alliances between the U.S. and host nations, and we’re particularly grateful for the assist and help the hospital ship will present to those growing communities,” Nicholson mentioned.
Roughly 800 personnel are at the moment supporting PP22, together with representatives from the Royal Navy and the Australian Defence Pressure. “We’re so excited to carry the Pacific Partnership group to Guam,” mentioned Royal Navy Capt. Charles Maynard, PP22 deputy mission commander. “The exchanges from this mission create lasting bonds of friendship and belief that can final far past the time Mercy leaves the pier.”
Whereas in Guam, Mercy Sailors are taking part in a number of outreach occasions, together with seashore clean-up initiatives, assist to the Nationwide Park Service for his or her annual Memorial Day occasion, and live shows for the general public carried out by the U.S. Pacific Fleet Brass Ensemble.
“Our group aboard Mercy embraces outreach engagements and values any approach we are able to present assist for the local people,” mentioned Capt. Timothy Quast, commanding officer of Mercy.
“As a doctor who served on the Naval Hospital in Guam for 3 years, I can say that it’s an honor to be again and a privilege to work once more with the fantastic folks of Guam.”
A number of Sailors who’re from Guam are additionally collaborating within the PP22 mission.
“It feels nice to return dwelling with Mercy, supporting PP22,” mentioned Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Raymond Uson from Yigo, Guam. “It’s been over 10 years since I’ve been dwelling, and I’m wanting ahead to seeing my household and mates.”
Pacific Partnership and Mercy crew members may have an opportunity to discover Guam in the course of the port go to.
“My mom and brother are at the moment on the island,” mentioned Uson. “It makes me pleased to see them as a result of I understand how proud they’re of me. I’m wanting ahead to consuming native dishes I’m accustomed to. I hope to point out my Mercy household a good time round Guam and why it’s particular to me.”
