The US Navy-led Pacific Partnership, now in its 13th iteration, is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster preparedness mission in the Indo-Pacific. Working with regional host nations, military forces, government officials, and civilian humanitarian actors, Pacific Partnership seeks to enhance multilateral cooperation while advancing maritime security and regional stability. This mission is aimed at leveraging partner nation militaries and NGO capabilities to expand disaster relief capacity while improving US influence and relationships in the Pacific.

Vietnamese trainees simulate a water rescue while participating in a Surf Life Saving Vietnam lifeguard training course.

Natural and man-made disasters do not respect borders or national sovereignty. This dynamic mission demonstrates the tangible benefits of multilateral and civil-military cooperation, bringing together experts from many nations to pursue solutions to complex problems. During this year’s iteration, an increase in the number of drownings that occur each year in Vietnam was identified as a key problem to address. On average, over 15 people drown every day in Vietnam due to lack of water safety education and trained lifeguards. The majority of the casualties are children. A US Army team, deployed as part of the American Pacific Partnership contingent, brought the critical need for Vietnamese lifeguard training to Spirit of America’s attention after discussions with local leaders and Vietnamese officials.

Members of the US Navy demonstrate medical procedures during a water safety training course.

Creating lifeguards that can educate the local population, train others, and integrate with local schools in the outlying provinces is a first step in helping reduce these deaths. The ability of Pacific Partnership to respond to individual country needs like this one will not only save lives, but also help the US continue its legacy of strong cooperation and defense ties with Vietnam.