U.S. and Mongolia Armed Forces service members, with assistance from the governments of Nepal, Thailand and the Peoples Republic of China, kicked of humanitarian assistance operations in support of Pacific Angel 14-4, Aug. 11-16.

The U.S. Air Force lead mission supports U.S. Pacific Command’s capacity-building efforts by partnering with other governments, non-governmental agencies and multilateral militaries in the respective region to provide medical, dental, optometry, and engineering assistance to their citizens.

“It has been several years since we started taking an active part in humanitarian assistance events both abroad and in country,” said Colonel. G. Khashchuluun, chief of supplies and materials department, General Staff of the Armed Force of Mongolia.  “The Mongolia Armed Forces co-hosted Pacific Angel 2011, three years ago, so we are happy to have the Pacific Angel exercise back in Mongolia.”

The operation is designed to help cultivate common bonds and foster goodwill between the U.S., Mongolia and regional nations by conducting multilateral humanitarian assistance and civil military operations.

“This is the opportunity for the two militaries to work together,” said Lt. Col. Jim Fowler, mission commander for Pacific Angel 14-4 Mongolia. “It builds capabilities and capacities with the local MAF and allows us to develop skill sets and work together to do humanitarian efforts for the local populace.”

The operation is a great event to promote cooperation between the two forces, while encouraging civil and military relationships and cooperation, Khashchuduun said.

“It is a great opportunity,” Fowler said. “I’m really excited because I have the chance to work with really talented people and to watch this all come together is wonderful. It is great to serve the local populace and get satisfaction from that.”

During the week long event, the health service out reach, being held at three separate clinic locations, is expected to see any where from 600 to 900 patients a day,  Fowler said. Simultaneously, the civil engineer’s working with MAF to improve local schools.

 “The Mongolian and U.S. forces have been serving together in overseas missions, including peace keeping missions,” Khashchuduun said. “For the MAF to have the opportunity to cooperate in the humanitarian assistance side of the house is wonderful. I am sure that in the future we will have many more similar opportunities to develop our cooperation and relationship further.