MISSION ACCOMPLISHED! Pohnpei School Boat, 2009
During the summer of 2004, a group of our volunteers built a school on the outer island of Sapwuafik, located just over 110 miles from Pohnpei. (Click here to SEE PROJECT). In the past, there was a ship – The Micro Glory – that transported locals to and from the outer islands, including Sapwuafik, Pingelap, Mwoakilloa, Nukuoro, and Kapingamarangi. Since the The Micro Glory has been out of service, it is hard to find reliable and timely transportation to and from the outer islands. The school that was built in 2004 on the island of Sapwuafik and its volunteer teachers need attending to, and when emergencies arise, the people of these outer islands need immediate care.
By December 2008, MAHI International placed an order with Panga Marine for a 28-ft. Adventura, which eventually was given the name Werner One named after 2 significant contributors of the boat. The Werner One now provides safe and reliable transportation to our volunteers as they serve the people of the outer islands.
On Mother’s Day 2009, the Werner One arrived on the island of Pohnpei, and before the end of the week it was taken on its first test ride. Werner One’s first voyage to the outer island of Sapwuafik provided safe transportation for 11 individuals and much-needed supplies.
We’d like to thank the many individuals who have contributed not only their dollars but their time and prayers in bringing Werner One to Micronesia. In addition, this project was made possible by the boat manufacturer Panga Marine. MAHI International is grateful to Panga Marine’s owner Rob McDaniel for not only providing a quality product, but also for his willingness to support humanitarian projects. We appreciate each one of you who have supported to make this happen.
Because of you, there is a boat built to withstand the conditions of the open ocean to further necessary work in the outer islands of Pohnpei.
LINKS
Above: Miller Benjamin, the Pohnpei School principal, receives Werner One at the dock.
Below: The Werner One on its first test run in Florida.
