TIEN PHUOC, Vietnam -- Pacific Angel (PAC ANGEL) 18-2, which provided health care and infrastructure enhancements to thousands in the Quang Nam province, Vietnam, concluded with a closing ceremony at Tien Tho Primary School in Tien Tho commune, Tien Phuoc district Sept. 17, 2018.
For six days the U.S. and Vietnam along with Australia, Singapore, Laos, Cambodia and other partner nations provided general health, pediatrics, physical therapy, dental, optometry and pharmacy services as well as structural, plumbing and electrical engineering improvements to several locations in Quang Nam province.
“We’re here to grow Vietnam’s capacity,” said Daniel J. Kritenbrink, U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam. “We’re here to show that we are invested in Vietnam’s success, and we’re here to show that we support the development of a strong, prosperous and independent Vietnam.”
Approximately 65 U.S. personnel, which included Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marine Corps, worked alongside multinational counterparts, local non-governmental organizations and host nation military forces to achieve PAC ANGEL goals.
“Not only does Pacific Angel allow us to help people in need, but it also helps us improve our interoperability with likeminded military and civilian medical and engineering professional in Vietnam and throughout the region,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. James O. Eifert, Air National Guard assistant to the Pacific Air Forces Commander.
Health Services Outreach efforts led to the treatment of approximately 4,843 people, and the Engineering Civic Action Program improved infrastructure of five schools and three medical facilities. The improvements effect more than 21,000 area residents.
“These efforts are a qualitative expression of the United States’ commitment to the Indo-Pacific and demonstrate our continuing resolve to support international disaster and humanitarian relief efforts in this region,” said Eifert. “Likewise, we hope this event highlights the importance that the United States places on our special relationship with Vietnam”
In its 11th year, PAC ANGEL has ensured the region’s militaries are prepared to work together to address humanitarian crisis. Since 2007, PAC ANGEL engagements have impacted the lives of tens of thousands of people by providing health services ranging from dental, optometry, pediatrics and physical therapy to civil engineer programs, humanitarian aid and disaster relief and subject matter expert exchanges. This year, Pacific Angel humanitarian events further strengthened relationships in Vietnam as well as Vanuatu, Timor-Leste and Sri Lanka.
“It’s close to miraculous what we’ve achieved in just the 23 years since we’ve normalized relations with Vietnam,” said Kritenbrink. “And while what we’ve achieved maybe a miracle, it is not an accident. It came about because of hard work and commitment by great leaders on both sides.”