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Yesterday, Jamaica received a much-needed donation of medical supplies from US Naval Forces Southern Command /US 4th Fleets' Continuing Promise (CP) 2024.

The handover ceremony was held at the Kingston Wharves. Among the supplies are 25 nebulisers, two hospital beds, syringes, hygiene kits, and two pallets of assorted medical supplies.

"Continuing Promise is an important symbol of our ongoing commitment to the people of Latin America and the Caribbean. And we truly value this opportunity to support our Jamaican partners in this time of great need," said Lieutenant Commander Zachary Smith, mission commander for CP 2024. This is the mission's third visit to Jamaica since 2015, making it one of the mission's most popular destinations.

Twenty US medical personnel will provide side-by-side medical care in two facilities throughout the visit. Colonel Dameon Creary of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) stated that the deployment demonstrates the shared values and dedication to the humanitarian and disaster (HA/DR) assistance between the JDF and US Naval Forces Southern Command.

"We look forward to working alongside our US counterparts to make a positive impact in Jamaica not only in the HA/DR efforts following Hurricane Beryl, but also in medical activities to benefit our veterans and community members as well,"Creary said.

Approximately 20 mission personnel will work alongside partner nation medical personnel to provide direct patient care and technical expertise in community clinics, to improve medical readiness, strengthen partnership and enhance the combined capabilities of the US Navy and partner nations to respond to public health disasters and humanitarian crises.

US Ambassador to Jamaica, Nick Perry, said the visit of CP 2024 comes at an opportune time, as Jamaica and several islands in the Caribbean region grapple with the extensive damage caused by the passage of Hurricane Beryl.

"In the aftermath of the hurricane, Embassy Kingston coordinated with the Continuing Promise Mission leads to ensure this delivery of emergency equipment and supplies was quickly on board and brought to Jamaica to help in the recovery efforts. Today's handover is on the heels of yesterday's announcement of US$2.5 million in humanitarian assistance that will help Jamaicans repair homes, assist with water and sanitation needs, support logistical operations, and provide essential relief to those in need," Perry said.

Following Jamaica, CP 2024 will continue with visits to Costa Rica, Honduras, Colombia and Panama.