The U.S. Coast Guard, alongside partners in Pohnpei State, Federated States of Micronesia, successfully concluded the Federated States of Micronesia Search and Rescue Exercise 2025.

Held from July 28 to August 1 in Pohnpei, the exercise included seminars, tabletop exercises, and underway activities aboard Guardian-class patrol boats FSS Bethwel Henry and FSS Tosiwo Nakayama. 

Training focused on SAR fundamentals, alerting procedures, and communications, strengthening regional response capabilities.

"Participating in the SAR exercise in Pohnpei was both fun and deeply rewarding. Sharing my experiences handling search and rescue operations from Guam with our FSM partners strengthened our bonds, and the on-water drills highlighted how our combined skills can save lives in the Pacific," said Petty Officer 2nd Class Will Naden, a coxswain at Station Apra Harbor and Guam son. 

"The successful conclusion of this SAR exercise illustrates the direct impact of our engagement efforts. The communication was excellent, and it’s gratifying to see our partners apply these skills in real-world scenarios," said Lt. Cmdr. Derek Wallin, maritime advisor at Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam.

The value of these exercises and partnerships is reflected in cases over the last year included:

  • August 17, 2024: Six fishermen were rescued 30 miles north of Satawal Atoll after their vessel’s engine failed, aided by a personal locator beacon and the USCGC Oliver Henry crew.
  • January 24, 2025: Pohnpei’s Division of Fire and Emergency Services, leveraging prior training, coordinated with FSM National Police and U.S. Coast Guard to resolve a local maritime distress case.

U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia/Sector Guam personnel oversee 1.9 million square nautical miles, and our primary SAR responsibility in that region includes the FSM and the Republic of Palau under the Compact of Free Association.