Palau

SANTA RITA, Guam — The crew USCGC Frederick Hatch (WPC 1143) returned to Apra Harbor at the end of September following a successful deployment to Palau and ...

Under the Compact of Free Association, Palau and the United States agreed the United States has full authority and responsibility for defense and security matters relating to Palau. The U.S. The scope of U.S. These cutters are a vital part of the U.S. The United States and Palau maintain diplomatic relations, deep ties, and a cooperative relationship. Palau is an archipelago of over 500 islands, part of the Micronesia region in the western Pacific Ocean. "We appreciate the opportunity Sea Dragon presents not only for SAR but for maritime domain awareness and law enforcement support." The Frederick Hatch crew also searched two nautical miles west of Palau Reef for an overdue vessel, located the following morning by the Sea Dragon aerial surveillance program. Our crew's local engagements in Palau reinforced our enduring shared values and heritage and advanced U.S. The experience was invaluable as we prepare for our upcoming expeditionary patrol in which we plan to complete shiprider boardings with three countries to augment their established maritime law enforcement capabilities." "Palau has been an established and trusted partner for bilateral shiprider operations in the past. "It was a pleasure to assist the government of Palau in enhancing their maritime sovereignty and resource security to combat illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing within their exclusive economic zone," said Lt.