PUERTO LEMPIRA, Honduras –
The U.S. Civil Affairs Team assigned to Choluteca engaged in critical discussions with local government officials and security forces to bolster cooperation and address key challenges facing the region on Feb. 13 in Puerto Lempira, Gracias a Dios, Honduras.
In a meeting with Puerto Lempira Mayor Eduardo Sinclair Chow and the vice mayor, discussions centered on vital infrastructure improvements, including road maintenance, water accessibility and power supply. CAT Choluteca, alongside Army Forces Commander Maj. Andrew J. Naramore, Army Forces CMOC Chief, Maj. Lee Hale, and U.S. Embassy NAVSEC Cmdr., Ryan K. Evans, explored potential resources and coordination mechanisms to support ongoing and future projects, particularly in remote and underserved areas. The meeting emphasized collaborative efforts between local authorities, civil affairs personnel and the U.S. Embassy Security Cooperation Office to achieve sustainable development in Gracias a Dios.
Public safety emerged as another crucial topic. Chow and the vice mayor voiced concerns regarding crime, illegal trafficking and emergency response capabilities. CAT Choluteca highlighted opportunities for joint training, capacity building, and interagency coordination with local law enforcement and security forces. Strengthening community policing and fostering trust between security personnel and residents were identified as shared priorities. The discussions also encompassed education and health services, with a focus on expanding access to essential resources for the community.
That same day, CAT Choluteca met with UDEP-09 Gracias a Dios Sub-Commissioner Barahona at the Unidad Departamental in Puerto Lempira. This engagement focused on strengthening security cooperation, enhancing community resilience and reinforcing interagency collaboration. Key topics included local security challenges, counter-narcotics efforts, and the importance of police-military cooperation. Barahona and his team provided insights on the operational environment and ongoing efforts to improve public safety. CAT Choluteca explored ways to support capacity-building initiatives through training, logistical support and information sharing.
Both engagements signify a renewed commitment to collaboration between U.S. civil-military personnel and local authorities in Gracias a Dios. The meetings fostered stronger working relationships and paved the way for future collaborative efforts to promote sustainable development, enhance regional security and improve the quality of life of the local community.