Commander of the HSV2, Christopher K. Barnes explained that a training team from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service in the U.S will be conducting the week long training sessions, which is aimed at creating safer and better security at Jamaica’s Port, and also to improve relations with the United States {U.S} Navy and the Caribbean.

“The idea is to assist the JDF to better secure the various ports in Jamaica, from a physical and technological aspect. The safety and security of any port is paramount, and the US has a high interest in Jamaica as a friendly Caribbean island. Once the ports here are deemed to be safe, navy vessels, coast guards, and cruise ships among others, will continue to visit", he said. 

The Gleaner crew also toured sections of the vessel including its medical room, cafeteria, lounge, bridge, barracks, and flight deck.

The training sessions are made possible through the military liaison office of the US embassy, which is being coordinated by Fern White, and Kelia Cummins.

HSV2 was one of three navy ships that visited 12 countries in West and Central Africa to conduct military- to- military training, Humanitarian assistance and joint programs with non-governmental organizations. This is the second of such visits being made by the HSV2, having docked at the Boundbrook wharf in 2007, shortly after the General Election, on a similar exercise.    

On Friday January 9, a team from the HSV2, will donate U.S $44,000 {Approximately $ 3.2 million} worth of medical equipment to the Port Antonio hospital, along with approximately 4000 text books to Titchfield high, and other schools in the parish.

A total of 99 persons are on board the 319 feet vessel including 71 from the military and 18 civilian crew members. Following Friday’s proceedings, HSV2 will set sail for other Nicaragua, Colombia, Dominican Republic, and Barbados; having already visited Panama, and El Salvador. The HSV2 will then return to Jamaica in April for a similar assignment.