Diggin'

PALAU

10.20.2020

Video by Sgt. Stephanie Cervantes 

I Marine Expeditionary Force

U.S. Marines with explosive ordnance disposal (EOD), Task Force Koa Moana (TF KM) 20, I Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF), sweep for unexploded ordnance (UXO) in the Republic of Palau. Marines and Sailors with TF KM20, I MEF, are conducting engagements in the Republic of Palau from July through September of 2020. Koa Moana, meaning “ocean warrior,” is designed to strengthen and enhance relationships between the U.S. and partner nations/states in the Indo-Pacific region, improve interoperability with local security establishments, and serve as a Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team afloat in support of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s strategic and operational objectives. TF KM20 provides a unique opportunity to enhance relationships in the Republic of Palau. The Koa Moana task force has taken extensive measures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The health and safety of U.S. service members and Palauan citizens participating in TF KM20 is an enduring priority. Prior to deploying, all exercise members participated in a three-week quarantine. After arriving in Palau, the Marines and Sailors remained quarantined for an additional 14 days. To date, all members deployed as part of TF KM20 tested negative for COVID-19. (U.S. Marine Corps motion imagery by Sgt. Stephanie Cervantes)

• Date Taken: 10.20.2020
• Date Posted: 10.22.2020 17:00
• Category: Package
• Video ID: 770444
• VIRIN: 201020-M-EA576-1001
• Filename: DOD_108031725
• Length: 00:00:51
• Location: PW