Army Takes Command as Civic Action Team Celebrates 56 Years in Palau
By: Summer Kennard
KOROR, Palau — Palau and the United States marked 56 years of partnership Friday during a Transfer of Authority ceremony at Ngarachamayong Cultural Center, as the outgoing Navy Civic Action Team (CAT) 133-32 formally handed over duties to the incoming Army CAT 84-10.
The ceremony brought together U.S. military personnel, Palauan’s leaders, and community members to celebrate the Civic Action Team’s long-standing role under the Compact of Free Association.
The program began with the national anthems of Palau and the United States, followed by an invocation from Pastor Nick Krake. Vice President Arnold Oilouch praised the enduring relationship between Palau and the U.S. military and commended CAT 133-32 for its community work.
“Ambassador, this is a much bigger crowd than six months ago,” Oilouch said. “I believe that’s a testimony toward you and the work and assistance that has been done, and the friendships developed through these works.”
Lieutenant Junior Grade Shawn Colden, outgoing Officer in Charge of CAT 133-32, officially passed authority to Capt. Jon Furlong of CAT 84-10. Colden reflected on the team’s six-month mission, which included construction projects, apprenticeship programs, monument restoration, and community outreach events.
“Palau is one of the most beautiful places on Earth with exceptionally welcoming people,” Colden said. He urged the incoming team to “do as good and better” in continuing the mission.
Furlong accepted authority with a pledge to build on past successes. He outlined priorities including community construction projects, school engagement, monument maintenance in Peleliu and Angaur, and improvements to the recycling plant access road in Koror.
“We just want to be here for the people of Palau, to promote health and well-being,” Furlong said. “We aim to make a positive impact wherever we can, promoting general health and well-being within the community.”
A highlight of the event was the presentation of apprenticeship certificates in partnership with the Palau Community Action Agency and the National Center for Construction Education and Research. Training was provided in trades such as carpentry, plumbing, welding, electrical work, and mechanics.
Certificate recipients included:
● Jeric Borja — Mechanics
● Kasian Lewis — Welding
● Sammi Kailang — Heavy Equipment
● Wade Kailang — Carpentry
● Ralphy Harry — Carpentry
Palauan organizations, including the Communicable Disease Unit, Team Palau Athletics, the Ministry of Human Resource, Culture, Tourism Development, and the Palau Community Action Agency, presented gifts and expressed appreciation for CAT 133-32’s service.
The ceremony closed with a reaffirmation of the half-century-long Civic Action Team partnership, a symbol of shared commitment to community development and friendship between Palau and the United States.
