Maritime Security in Focus as US and Palau Launch Joint Patrol

The U.S. Coast Guard cutter Myrtle Hazard, based in Guam, completed nearly 300 hours of operations across Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Palau during June and July 2025. The mission focused on enforcing maritime laws, strengthening regional partnerships, and countering illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the Pacific.

Two officers from Palau’s Division of Marine Law joined the crew on board for joint operations, including boardings. The effort was part of a bilateral maritime law enforcement agreement that allows the U.S. Coast Guard to help Palau monitor its exclusive economic zone and act against maritime violations on its behalf.

Lt. Emma Saunders, commanding officer of the Myrtle Hazard, said the collaboration strengthens regional security through shared effort and coordination. She praised the combined work of the Palauan officers and the U.S. crew for enhancing maritime enforcement across the region.

During the mission, the Coast Guard also delivered navigation equipment to the Marine Safety Unit in Saipan, which is responsible for ensuring safety and environmental protection across the Northern Marianas through industry training and maritime oversight.

This patrol was aligned with Operation Blue Pacific and Operation Rematau, both aimed at detecting and disrupting illegal activity while expanding maritime domain awareness in U.S. and partner waters. As part of their readiness mission, the crew trained and certified new personnel in key positions such as underway officer of the deck, boarding team member, and deck-in-charge.

Lt. Cmdr. Derek Wallin, maritime advisor for the U.S. Coast Guard in Micronesia and Sector Guam, highlighted the value of international cooperation in maintaining rule of law and enhancing capability across maritime borders.