Thank You, USNS Mercy
The hospital ship, USNS Mercy, left the Philippines on June 18 after conducting a successful humanitarian mission in three provinces. The mission served in Zamboanga, Jolo and Tawi-Tawi.
The ship arrived in Manila on May 20 from its base in San Diego, where it loaded supplies and personnel from nongovernment organizations and the Armed Forces of the Philippines. Volunteers from the US Public Health Service, Aloha Medical Mission, Project Hope and the Pre-Dental Society of the University of California at San Diego joined the medical mission, along with a contingent of medical specialists from the US and Canadian militaries.
In tandem with these partners, USNS Mercy medical personnel provided medical and surgical services to thousands of Filipinos both in the ship’s onboard facilities and at hospitals and medical centers on shore in various port cities.
In addition to the medical teams, the USNS Mercy brought teams of US Navy sailors who specialize in construction to assist in engineering and building projects in the country. The US Navy Showband was also onboard.
Thousands of patients were treated by the medical personnel involved in this mission. An even more lasting legacy was the training of local medical professionals who will continue to serve those who are in need. Dozens of construction projects were also completed.
After their visit to the Philippines, the ship will go on to Indonesia, Bangladesh and East Timor to conduct similar visits.
A lot of attention has been paid to the conflicts that are going on in various countries. But everyday, the crew on ships like the USNS Mercy go about their work quietly, without fanfare. They do good and improve people’s lives wherever they go.
For photos of their visit to the Philippines and elsewhere, click here.
Thank you, USNS Mercy, from the hearts of Filipinos everywhere!
[Source: Manila Times]
Tags: USNS Mercy, medical mission
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