U.S. and Fijian Navies Unite to Beautify Marist Convent School in Lami

In a heartfelt display of friendship and shared values, 30 U.S. Navy sailors from the U.S. 7th Fleet and USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) joined forces with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Naval Division last week on Monday, 5th May 2025, to carry out a community beautification project at Marist Convent School – Lami.

The joint initiative saw sailors and Fijian naval personnel working side by side with students and teachers at the Catholic primary school, engaging in landscaping and yard maintenance throughout the school grounds.

Among the volunteers was Rear Admiral Kyle Gantt, Deputy Commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet, who emphasized the significance of the collaboration beyond joint maritime operations.

“The U.S. and Fijian navies regularly work together in the maritime domain to preserve security in the waters around this region, but it was particularly special to see our navies also working alongside one another volunteering in the community here in Suva,” said Rear Adm. Gantt.

“Our nations share a longstanding friendship rooted in shared values, and I saw that demonstrated by both our Sailors at Marist Convent School – Lami today.”

For many U.S. sailors, this was their first opportunity to volunteer overseas. Chief Personnel Specialist Thinh Le, assigned to Blue Ridge, called the experience deeply rewarding.

“The overall experience was awesome… to help and give back. One of our purposes is to defend our country but to also build relationships and friendships,” said Le. “It’s always good to show the children, no matter where you’re from… to come together and work towards a goal.”

The school community warmly welcomed the visitors. Sister Kalala Taufa, a teacher at Marist Convent School, praised the group’s efforts with visible emotion.

“You did a great job! A marvelous job!” she said. “Thank you so much. You have taken us to another level. Another level! You are all friendly and very approachable. It makes a big difference for us. I will invite you to please come back again.”

The event underscored the strength of the U.S.-Fiji partnership, not only in strategic defense cooperation but in grassroots, people-to-people connections that continue to grow across the Pacific.