Overview:
U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Commander Adm. Samuel Paparo visited Peleliu this week, becoming the first USINDOPACOM chief to set foot on the historic island. The visit included a tribute to those lost in the Battle of Peleliu, meetings with U.S. Marines and reviews of major infrastructure projects supported through the Compact of Free Association.
KOROR, Palau (May 27, 2026) — President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. hosted Adm. Samuel Paparo, commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, during a visit to Palau that included a trip to Peleliu, commemorative events and reviews of infrastructure projects supported under the Compact of Free Association.
According to the Office of the President, Paparo’s visit to Peleliu marked the first time a commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command has visited the island.
President Whipps and Paparo participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at the 81st Infantry Division Memorial, honoring those who died during the Battle of Peleliu, one of the Pacific Theater’s fiercest battles during World War II. The campaign, fought between September and November 1944, resulted in thousands of American, Japanese and Palauan casualties.
The delegation also visited Orange Beach, one of the principal landing sites during the battle, and toured Sledge Runway, a 6,000-foot airstrip named after Marine veteran Eugene B. Sledge. The runway was restored and recertified by U.S. Marines in June 2024.
In Peleliu, Gov. Emais Roberts hosted the delegation, which included U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Shankar Rao. The group also met with U.S. Marines stationed at Camp Beck.
Speaking during a dinner later that evening, Whipps said the visit reflected the longstanding relationship between Palau and the United States and underscored ongoing cooperation in support of regional security and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
The visit also highlighted infrastructure projects underway in Peleliu through U.S. support under the Compact of Free Association. Among them are improvements to Peleliu Airfield and a $12 million rehabilitation project at the South Dock led by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps under U.S. Pacific Fleet.
The South Dock project includes dredging and channel restoration, upgrades to wharf facilities and laydown areas, and construction of a public boat launch designed to provide improved vessel access regardless of tidal conditions.
State officials have described the projects as important investments that will enhance transportation access, economic activity and public services for Peleliu residents.
The visit comes as Palau and the United States continue to expand cooperation under the Compact of Free Association, which supports economic assistance, infrastructure development and defense cooperation between the two countries.