PACANGEL 17-4 concludes with continued partnership in Nepal

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Valerie Monroy
  • Pacific Air Forces Public Affairs
GORKHA, Nepal --  Pacific Angel 17-4 concluded Aug. 20 with a closing ceremony in Gorkha, Nepal after partnered care and infrastructure enhancements improved the lives of thousands in the community.

Beginning Aug. 13, the U.S. partnered with several nations to provide general health, pediatrics, physical therapy, dental, and optometry services as well as structural, plumbing and electrical engineering improvements to several locations in the Gorkha area.

“These efforts are a visible expression of the United States’ commitment to the Indo-Asia-Pacific and demonstrates our continuing resolve to support international disaster and humanitarian relief efforts in this region,” U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. James Eifert, Pacific Air Forces Air National Guard Assistant to the Commander. “Likewise, this event highlights the importance that the United States places on our steadfast relationship with Nepal.”

PACANGEL 17-4 combined approximately 55 U.S. personnel including active duty, National Guard, and reserve members from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Marine Corps, with Nepal Army counterparts and three regional nations, to create a multinational joint team. Additional nations included Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Mongolia.

For Nepal Army Maj. Gen. Devendra Bahadur Medhasi, General Officer Commanding of the Western Division, this partnership and humanitarian aid is especially important in the wake of the 2015 earthquake that killed nearly 9,000 people. The work completed helped to promote a better quality of life for the Nepali people.

The combined capabilities allowed for medical care to be provided to 4,041 total patients, and infrastructure improvements made to five sites throughout Gorkha.

“Thank you for your tireless efforts and your commitment to a better tomorrow,” Eifert said.