Commander, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Adm. Phil Davidson participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony for a Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Pacific-contracted project recently completed at Khanh Hoa Dermatology Clinic in Khanh Hoa, Vietnam April 17.

On the same day Khanh Hoa Dermatology Clinic celebrated its completion, a ribbon cutting ceremony was held for another NAVFAC Pacific project in the same province at Ninh Thuong Primary School.

“The United States wants to be a vital partner in supporting the development of a strong, prosperous and independent Vietnam that contributes to international security,” said Davidson. “Our health and medical engagements have been one of the primary ways we continue to build on our strong relationship; and strengthen Vietnam's medical capacity.”

The 2,842 square foot dermatology clinic provides six fully functioning patient rooms with electrical, water and furniture. Each room is also has its own bathroom for patient privacy. The new rooms resolve a critical issue at the hospital and will increase the ability for staff to treat patients in the region.

“These contracts do a lot for communities in Vietnam,” said NAVFAC Pacific Theater Engagement Engineer Cmdr. Walt Sibley. “Not only do the contracts provide great facilities for the local people, but by sourcing local contractors, the local community gets an economic stimulus and an increase in job skills.”

Funding for the dermatology clinic came from Overseas Humanitarian, Disaster and Civic Aid (OHDACA). Following Typhoon Damrey, which hit Vietnam in November, 2017, OHDACA funding was also provided for the Ninh Thuong Primary School and the Khanh Hoa Tropical Disease Hospital. OHDACA provided $392,832 to NAVFAC Pacific to fund contracts for these projects.

“Our in-country engineer Thanh Nguyen greatly contributed to the success of this project,” said Sibley. “We were able to leverage his in-depth knowledge of the region and engineering expertise.”

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