Usually stationed in Curaçao, the Zr. Ms. Pelikaan plays a crucial role in supporting various operations and exercises of the Dutch military across the Dutch Caribbean territories. The vessel is also equipped to provide critical aid during natural disasters, such as hurricanes.
This Saturday, a reception was held aboard the Zr. Ms. Pelikaan, where key partners of Saba’s crisis organization were welcomed by Commander Max Borsboom. Attendees included Island Governor Jonathan Johnson, Island Secretary Bram Streppel, Head of Public Order and Safety Walle Bos and representatives of Saba’s Emergency Support Functions, including the police, fire department, health sector, social domain, and harbor management.
Windward Express Exercise and Upcoming Taskforce focus on aid after hurricanes
During the Windward Express exercise, military personnel will visit both Sint Maarten and Saba in several rotations to train together with local partners on each island. This training exercise will further develop the islands’ preparedness as well as the military’s response time for hurricane relief.
From September 22nd to 26th, “Taskforce Saba” will visit Saba. This taskforce mainly consists of infantry personnel stationed on Curaçao. The group is tasked with providing immediate support in the event of a natural disaster on Saba, particularly during the aftermath of hurricanes. Its visit enables military personnel to familiarize themselves with Saba’s unique geography and local needs. For this purpose, they will among other things be provided with a tour and explanation of the island’s vital infrastructure and its vulnerabilities. Their presence ensures that Saba will have personnel on hand who are well-informed to assist with relief efforts, if the need arises.
Community Participation
Among the tasks the marines will undertake during their stay is the restoration of the path along the Sulphur Mine. This vital work will enable researchers from the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute's (KNMI) Volcanic Team to access equipment used for monitoring volcanic activity.
Additionally, marines will engage with the local community by visiting schools, the elderly home, and assisting with the transportation of SATEL equipment to the peak of Mount Scenery. A football match between Saba’s team and the marines will also take place at the Johann Cruyff Field, tonight at 7:00 p.m. and the community is invited to spectate.
Further discussions will take place between the marines and Island Governor Jonathan Johnson throughout this week to enhance their understanding of Saba’s local context, history, and logistical challenges.
Island Governor Jonathan Johnson thanked the Ministry of Defence for its visit.
“We appreciate the continued support, dedication, and preparedness of the marines by coming to our island and learning about the people and the island itself. It is reassuring to know that we can continue to rely on the Ministry of Defence in general and the marines in particular when times are not so good," stated Island Governor Jonathan Johnson.
