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Reflective Ties: Navigating safety and solidarity in Palau's waters

Courtesy Photo | A public works crew refreshes paint and applies retro-reflective tape to channel...... read more read more

PALAU

11.30.2023

Story by Chief Warrant Officer Sara Muir

U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia / Sector Guam

In the heart of the Pacific, where the azure waves lap against the shores of Palau, a story unfolded recently, one that speaks to the essence of neighbors helping neighbors. This narrative of cooperation and community didn't begin in the grandeur of a diplomatic meeting but rather on a routine site visit in October 2023. Yet, it found its memorable moment in the formal setting of the November bi-annual Joint Committee Meeting - diplomatic talks enhancing U.S.-Palau cooperation under the Compact of Free Association (COFA).

Gov. Sharp Sakuma of Ngaraard, seated among dignitaries, watched as the U.S Coast Guard representatives presented three rolls of retro-reflective tape before him. This unusual spectacle, far removed from typical diplomatic exchanges, sparked a delight in his eyes. The tape – in vivid red, green, and white – was a beacon of hope and safety for his people.

Lt. Anna Maria Vaccaro, the U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam COFA Liaison, had listened intently to the governor during an October site visit in Palau. She recalled the governor's heartfelt concerns about mariners struggling to find the channel entrance upon returning from sea. This problem led to heartbreaking losses. "When Gov. Sakuma shared the stories of families lost at sea, it struck a chord in me. We knew we had to find a simple yet effective solution," Lt. Vaccaro reflected. Drawing on her aids to navigation experience, she considered retro-reflective tape an innovative and practical solution.

Lt. Vaccaro leveraged her resources on her return from the initial meeting with the governor. With the local resource USCGC Hickory (WLB 212) in drydock, the USCGC Juniper (WLB 201), based out of Hawaii, was in Guam, filling the void. Tasked with servicing aids in the Mariana Islands and Kwajalein, the Juniper plays a pivotal role in maritime safety across the Western Pacific. This very crew, steadfast in their duty, generously provided the retro-reflective tape. This small but significant contribution would leave a lasting impact on the safety efforts in Palau.

With this simple ask to the USCGC Juniper crew's boatswain, the tape was provided, which Lt. Vaccaro then proudly presented to Governor Sakuma at the JCM. His reaction was a testament to the power of simple solutions. "Seeing Governor Sakuma's joy, it was clear that sometimes the simplest ideas can make the biggest difference," she added.

Lt. Cmdr. Igisomar was also on hand for the meetings and is the U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia Sector Guam maritime advisor. With familial ties to several Micronesian islands, she emphasized the broader significance of this gesture. "This isn't just about navigation safety; it's about understanding and addressing the unique challenges of island communities. It's personal for us. Our Micronesian neighbors have taken to the sea for millennia and will continue to do so; if we can make their return home this much safer, it will mean that communities can thrive."

Following the JCM, the Ngaraard team wasted no time applying the tape to the channel markers, transforming them into beacons of safety. This creative solution was more than just a navigational aid; it was a lifeline, safeguarding Palau's present and future generations.

"We had a couple of fishermen that went out last night, and they called me before they started diving, saying that it looks like a Christmas decoration on the ocean. It's very visible, the channel markers, so thank you again to the U.S. Coast Guard for the support," said Gov. Sakuma.

This gesture by the USCGC Juniper not only supported the ongoing needs in its regular areas of operation but also extended its influence to the waters of Palau, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of cooperation and shared resources within the U.S. Coast Guard's mission.

"We're not just protecting mariners; we're protecting families, generations, livelihoods, and traditions," Lt. Cmdr. Igisomar noted.

This story is part of a larger tapestry of collaboration between the U.S. Coast Guard and Palau. With initiatives like the Palau Search and Rescue Exercise on the horizon, this partnership continues to strengthen, grounded in mutual respect and a shared commitment to maritime safety.

In Palau, where the sea is a way of life, the reflective tape symbolizes more than safety; it represents the enduring bond between two neighbors, a testament to the power of understanding, empathy, and innovative problem-solving in forging a safer, more connected Blue Pacific.

-USCG-

U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam team focuses on maritime safety, security, and stewardship in Oceania, including the Republic of Palau. With a primary presence in Guam and Saipan and over 300 members across Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, the team maintains a strong U.S. presence in the Micronesia sub-region and adjacent areas, closely tied to local communities.