36 Proceedings Fall 2024 Finally, the cutter shifted to support FSM, where, in partnership with the U.S. Agency for International Development and the International Organization for Migration, they delivered critical supplies such as water and reverse osmosis systems to counter a severe drought. This level of logistical support is typical for the cutters operating in the Pacific islands and, more specifically, the Compacts of Free Association (COFA) states—FSM, Palau, and RMI. Beyond Oceania Coast Guard operations reach far beyond the Pacific islands, expanding to the South China Sea and Indian Ocean. These operations support the U.S. Coast Guard Pacific Area Campaign Plan, which prioritizes three lines of effort—prepare a ready force, generate combined effects, and uphold governance.6 In 2022, Japan’s coast guard and the U.S. Coast Guard signed the Solid Alliance for Peace and Prosperity with Humanity and Integrity on the Rule of law-based Engagements, or SAPPHIRE, Agreement, committing to extensive bilateral exercises with our national security cutters (NSC). To date, the Coast Guard has conducted a number of exercises with its NSCs operating in the region, including a trilateral capacity-building exercise with the Philippine Coast Guard in 2024. In May 2024, the Japan Coast Guard, Korea Coast Guard, and U.S. Coast Guard signed a trilateral agree- ment. Additionally, trilateral cooperation between Japan, the Philippines, and the U.S. Coast Guard was tested with the first joint exercise conducted in 2023. Japan and the U.S. jointly support capacity-building for the Petty Officer 1st Class Joshua Pablo, an EMT with the crew of Coast Guard cutter Oliver Henry, discusses the condition of an injured 9yearold boy with local medical personnel in Woleai, Federated States of Micronesia, after the ship’s crew transferred him and his parents from Satawal to Woleai. The family was later transported to Yap by air so the injured boy could receive a higher level of medical care. Coast Guard photo The crew of Coast Guard cutter Oliver Henry delivers drought relief supplies, reverse osmosis systems, and technicians to Woleai, Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), on April 12, 2024. The support provided to the four outer island communities of Satawal, Woleai, Fais, and Ulithi highlights the United States’ role in providing essential aid to the residents of FSM and strengthening community resilience against natural disasters. Coast Guard photo
