Kalahngan, Koa Moana 25

A Heartfelt Thank You to Koa Moana 25

U.S. Marines with Combat Logistics Battalion 15, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, and staff from the Pohnpei Public Library pose for a photo during Koa Moana 25 at Pohnpei Public Library on Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia, Sept. 1, 2025.

The Friends of the Pohnpei Public Library would like to take a moment to extend our deepest gratitude to the incredible service members of Koa Moana 25. Over the past weeks, they have gone above and beyond to support not only our library, but also the broader community that treasures it. Their dedication, hard work, and kindness have left a lasting mark on our grounds, our hearts, and the memories of all who visited during their time here.

From fixing the gate that welcomes our bookmobile and brightening our yard with fresh coats of paint, to bringing life back into our benches and our beloved turtle mascot, their touch has transformed our space into something brighter, safer, and more inviting. They did not just complete tasks—they poured their effort into every detail, making sure our library grounds reflect the warmth and joy we want every child and family to feel when they arrive.

Jordan Ligorio (Library Aide) accepting the gift to the Friends of the Pohnpei Public Library from the Combat Logistics Battalion 15, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group  (a uniform signed with love from our dear friends) on September 1st, 2025.

Koa Moana 25 also helped us make evenings more magical. Their work in repairing wiring and setting up outdoor lighting has allowed us to safely host community events under the stars. And of course, who could forget the movie night they helped bring to life? Watching Zootopia together—parents reminiscing about their own childhood trips to the cinema, children giggling at the antics of new favorite characters—reminded us of the simple, beautiful ways stories bring people together.

Photo by: Cpl. Ryan Ramsammy, taken at the Pohnpei Public Library on September 1st, 2025.

Gifts Presented to the Combat Logistics Battalion 15, Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group that served the Pohnpei Public Library since August 15th-September 3rd. 

In every task, big and small, Koa Moana 25 has given us more than just their time and skills. They’ve given us partnership, encouragement, and the reminder that community is strongest when people join hands across oceans to build something lasting. Their contributions have strengthened the library’s mission to be a safe, joyful place of learning, gathering, and imagination for all of Pohnpei.

Mingling under the FSM Stars

To the men and women of Koa Moana 25: thank you for your hard work, your generosity, and your friendship. We will remember not only the fences you secured, the benches you painted, and the lights you strung, but also the laughter, stories, and connections you shared with us. You are now part of our library family, and your legacy will live on every time a child sits on a freshly painted bench with a book in hand, or a family gathers for another night of community fun.

Kalahngan, Koa Moana 25. Your service has truly made waves here in Pohnpei, and we are better for it.