In response to COVID-19 preparations in the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), the U.S. Navy is assisting in constructing a quarantine facility in Pohnpei. This facility will include shower stalls, doors, and windows, serving as a potential quarantine station for COVID-19 cases.
BU2 Carlson briefed U.S. Ambassador Carmen G. Cantor and Pohnpei State Governor Reed B. Oliver during a recent visit to the Sokehs Pah Elementary School project. In Yap, Seabees from Naval Mobile Construction Five (NMCB5) are planning to construct 13 handwashing stations across the island. Lt. Bradford Garrigues commented on the Seabees' presence since 1969: “Over the last ten years, Seabees have only deployed for short visits and projects. But the people of Yap have a long memory and are quick to tell us stories of projects and community events that took place decades ago when they were children. Today, we are reestablishing a presence with our FSM partners in a way not seen since the 1990’s. It is very exciting to play such a key role in establishing Detail Yap and continuing the Seabees-in-Yap story.”
Lt. Brad Garrigues attended the opening of Tamilang Elementary School’s new cafeteria with Henry Falan and William Domingo. The U.S. Navy Seabees are strengthening partnerships while planning potential projects in Yap.
Currently, NMCB5 is also building a library/computer lab at Sokehs Pah Elementary School for 140 students from kindergarten to eighth grade. “The best part has been working around and getting to know the students of Sokehs Pah Elementary School,” said Builder Second Class Petty Officer (BU2) Christian Carlson, NMCB5 Crew Leader.
In addition to this project, NMCB5 is constructing handwashing stations throughout Pohnpei in partnership with UNICEF, International Organization for Migration (IOM), Pohnpei Environmental Protection Agency, Pohnpei Department of Health, Pohnpei Department of Education, and USAID. “Nothing that I have ever done in my life compares to this deployment in Pohnpei,” said Officer in Charge Lt. Brian Wood, NMCB5.
The U.S. Navy's deployments across the Indo-Pacific region aim to strengthen U.S.-FSM relations, deter foreign aggression, and enable naval power projection.