KOROR, Palau (Island Times) — U.S. Marines and Sailors with the Koa Moana 25 exercise have deployed to Palau to provide critical support to the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MHHS) as the nation prepares to host the 2025 Pacific Mini Games.
The Marines, from Combat Logistics Battalion 15 under the 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, are part of the recurring Koa Moana exercise — designed to strengthen U.S. partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, especially with the Compact of Free Association (COFA) nations, including Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia.
Their timely arrival has brought much-needed medical and logistical assistance to the local government, including the donation of 100 high-quality first aid kits to MHHS. These kits will be placed across Mini Games venues and health service sites to improve emergency response during the Games, which are expected to draw thousands of athletes, spectators, and officials from across the Pacific.
Palau Vice President and Minister of Justice Raynold Oilouch expressed his gratitude for the continued partnership.
“Thank you to all the wonderful men and women at Koa Moana 25, CLR 17, and MARFORPAC for this generous donation and for your continued support and tireless efforts in safeguarding the Republic of Palau and the Pacific region at large,” Oilouch said.
MHHS Administrator Antonette Merur also highlighted the significance of the Marines’ support in maintaining uninterrupted healthcare services during the international event.
“With the support of key partners like the U.S. Marines, we will be able to continue our regular health services without disruption during the two weeks of the Games,” Merur said.
Colonel Matthew Mulvey, commanding officer of CLR-17, emphasized that the mission goes beyond logistical support.
“Koa Moana allows us to continue developing meaningful, enduring relationships with our Pacific partners,” he said. “Our engagements are intended to strengthen our ability to work together in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
In addition to medical and logistical support, Koa Moana 25 includes engineering projects, school outreach, and training exchanges with experts in Palau and across the four states of the Federated States of Micronesia — Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae. The exercise will conclude with Marine Corps participation in Kosrae’s Liberation Day celebration, honoring the end of colonial rule during World War II.