The international waters of the Persian Gulf are active with ships of all types. Fishermen from across the region navigate these waters, making a living from its diverse marine life. Unfortunately, many fishermen lack the essential equipment needed to ensure they make it back to shore safely with a full catch despite the many dangers at sea. The inability to call for help, minimal first aid training or supplies, a lack of protective gear, and prolonged sun exposure all increase the daily risks these fishermen encounter. Furthermore, these warm blue waters are accompanied by contentious undertones. This region serves as a crossroads for malign actors and regional rivals alike, with fishermen often falling victim to illicit activities by such actors. To address these issues, the US military is on the forefront working alongside local partners to promote greater safety, stability, and peace.

Army civil affairs teams work alongside host nation partners to assist local fishermen

During ocean patrols and rescue operations, US Navy crews and their Army civil affairs partners routinely interact with these fishermen. Through these engagements, the teams observed the fishermen lacked basic equipment to keep them safe on the rough waters of the Gulf. To increase the survivability of the fishermen, Spirit of America is providing first aid kits, solar chargers, protective gloves, fishing pliers, hats, and sunglasses. Additionally, this effort will build stronger relationships between fishermen and the US military, which serves as a deterrent to malign actors in the region aiming to exploit fishermen as smugglers of illicit cargo.

Most fisherman lack essential safety gear such as first aid kits and radios.

Your support can help us provide local fishermen with needed safety equipment to prevent loss of life, while simultaneously strengthening key relationships in a strategically vital location.