Humanitarian Assistance Mission in Pacific Ends
23 September 2009
In a mission that resembled a nautical-powered road show, the
multinational humanitarian civic assistance mission, Pacific Partnership
2009, has come to a close after three months sailing throughout the
South Pacific delivering health and engineering services.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) contributed 67 personnel to the United States sponsored and led mission. They travelled over 5000 nautical miles to deliver services to the people of Samoa, Tonga, Solomon Islands, Kiribati and the Republic of the Marshall Islands between 30 June and 19 September 2009.
The Australian Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Mick Jasny, said the contribution was well received throughout the region, with medical attention provided to 22,307 people and over 14,000 man hours of various construction projects delivered to the communities visited by the mission.
"We are tired but happy and are so honoured to have worked with and helped our regional neighbours in the Pacific," Lieutenant Jasny said
"It has been an eye opening experience for all and it's touching to see the gratitude of the people in each country; we really did change and save lives."
The Australians worked alongside mission partners from the United States, who sponsored the mission, as well as New Zealand, Canada, Singapore, Japan, France, Chile and the Republic of Korea.
Pacific Partnership 2009 Commander, United States Navy Commodore Andrew Cully, said the mission proved a valuable exercise in developing international interoperability and training to assist in future disaster relief operations in the region.
Commodore Cully praised the work of the Australian contingent as he sailed from the region on board USNS RICHARD.E.BYRD, the 213 metre-long Military Sealift Command vessel that was home to the majority of the ADF personnel as they travelled around the Pacific.
"The Australian team was an enthusiastic group with an inspiring work ethic," Commodore Cully said.
"The thing I loved the most about the Australians was their perseverance. We could not have delivered the mission without them. They also had a great sense of humour. I would be honoured to serve with them in the future."
Health aid provided during the mission to local communities included general examinations, dental, optometry, paediatrics, preventative medicine, public health and veterinary services.
The major engineering achievement was the rapid replacement of a 215 meter cyclone-damaged bridge, reconnecting two communities in Kiribati. Other projects focused on refurbishment essential infrastructure such as schools, hospitals and medical clinics.
The Australian Defence Force contribution to the 2009 mission included 24 Australian Army Engineers, a Royal Australian Navy Medical Officer, a Royal Australian Air Force Dental Hygienist and two Royal Australian Navy Landing Craft Heavy, HMA Ships Betano and Wewak with a crew of around 20 each.
