Continuing Promise Returns to Nicaragua for Fourth Year of Service

By Marine Corps Sgt. Samuel R. Beyers, Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force, Continuing Promise 2010 Public Affairs

BLUEFIELDS, Nicaragua (NNS) -- An opening ceremony was held by local residents and leaders to celebrate Continuing Promise 2010 (CP10) - Partnership of the Americas - at Colegio Moravo in Bluefields, Nicaragua, Sept. 16.

The event was attended by leaders from CP10, local government and the U.S. ambassador to Nicaragua.

"Mission Continuing Promise 2010 shows our strong commitment to the Nicaraguan people with respect to their health, prosperity and democracy," said Robert J. Callahan, U.S. ambassador to Nicaragua. "In every aspect, this mission benefits both the United States and Nicaragua."

Over the next nine days, Sailors, Marines, Army, Air Force and non-governmental organization (NGO) members embarked aboard USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) are working together to conduct humanitarian assistance and subject-matter expert exchanges.

The CP10 team incorporates 13 participating nations to include Canada, Costa Rica, Germany, Netherlands, Paraguay and Nicaragua. CP10 brings a team of medical, dental, veterinary and engineering professionals working alongside their Nicaraguan counterparts.

"We are very excited to be in Bluefields bringing Continuing Promise back to Nicaragua for the fourth year in a row," said Capt. Thomas M. Negus, commodore, CP10. "Continuing Promise is an equal partnership humanitarian mission that serves as a strong and meaningful demonstration of our commitment to our neighbors here in Nicaragua."

Sailors and Marines assigned to the Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force (SPMAGTF) 2010 will provide translator support, engineering support, medical assistance and air transportation. The SPMAGTF has been organized, trained and equipped to provide humanitarian aid and disaster relief to Latin, Central and South America.

"I pledge to you the work of all our hands and the spirit in all of our hearts over the next nine days as we work side by side with Nicaraguans for Nicaragua," said Negus.