U.S. Coast Guard conduct joint patrol with Kiribati partners under Operation Blue Pacific
The USCGC Oliver Henry (WPC 1140) crew and shipriders from the Kiribati Police Maritime Unit (PMU) conduct a maritime law enforcement boarding of a foreign-flagged fishing vessel during a pivotal leg of its current expeditionary patrol in the Kiribati exclusive economic zone (EEZ) from Feb. 11 to 16, 2024. For the first time since 2015, the patrol incorporated shipriders from the PMU, executing the maritime bilateral agreement signed with Kiribati in 2008. These engagements under Operation Blue Pacific emphasize the United States' commitment to strengthening ties and ensuring maritime security within the Pacific community. (U.S Coast Guard photo by Lt. j.g. Nicholas Haas)