After a lapse in engagements during the COVID-pandemic, the Nevada National Guard in the United States and the Kingdom of Tonga are re-establishing the State Partnership Program with His Majesty’s Armed Forces (HMAF).

Brigadier General Michael Peyerl, Director of Joint Staff of the NVNG visited Tonga from 26-29 November, where he officially re-established the State Partnership Program between the two states.

Hon. Hu’akavameiliku, in his capacity as Minister for HMAF, received a courtesy call from Brigadier General Michael Peyerl in Nuku’alofa today, 29 November. They also met the Chief of Staff HMAF, and visited both the Taliai Military Camp and Masefield Base, MEIDECC and NEMO Warehouse and the Commissioner of Police.

The US delegation also visited the areas impacted by the HTHH tsunami

They stated that the Pacific Partnership is an opportunity for the US and regional partners to work together in an effort to conduct medical engagements, engineering projects, outreach events and HADR response activities to include continuing support for Tsunami relief

Under this partnership program, the community halls for Te’ekiu and Fua’amotu were built with a health clinic for Tefisi, Vava’u and painting of school buildings. The medical engagements include dental support, optometrist support and other vital services.