Pacific Air Forces Commander visits Palau

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Michael S. Murphy

U.S. Air Force Gen. Ken Wilsbach, Pacific Air Forces commander, traveled to the Republic of Palau July 28, 2021, to meet with local officials and service members at Camp Katuu.

The service members stationed at Camp Katuu are part of a Civic Action Team that consists of Army, Navy and Air Force engineers who perform six-month rotational deployments to Palau to support the local community with engineering projects.

During the visit, Wilsbach met with the U.S. Ambassador to Palau and participated in a joint press conference with Palau President Surangel Whipps, Jr., where together they reiterated the importance of the U.S. – Palau strategic partnership.

“The United States has a long and rich history with Palau, and our recent exercises and mutual support demonstrate the importance of Palau to regional security.” Wilsbach said. “We look forward to our continued partnership and continuing to work toward our shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

Wilsbach ended his time in Palau touring a location designed for Agile Combat Employment operations under the 333 Funding Authority.

The use of 333 funded equipment allows the Secretary of Defense to provide equipment, services, and training to national security forces of one or more foreign countries for the purpose of building capacity to counter illicit drug trafficking, increase military intelligence and strengthen maritime and border security.