U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Jeff Knoll (right) welcomes a Timorese preschooler at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new preschool in Maubara, Timor-Leste, which was constructed by U.S. Navy Seabees and Marines in coordination with Embassy Dili. “There is no better indication of our commitment to our enduring friendship with Timor-Leste than the opening of this school,” said Chargé d’Affaires Tom Daley in remarks at the opening of the new school. Since 2009, the Seabees have constructed or rehabilitated 104 schools and clinics, a total of $50 million worth of improvements, throughout Timor-Leste. Improving educational facilities is an important part of diplomatic efforts to promote better lives for people and help regional partners to grow and prosper.
Photo by Rosario Maia
