The small group of islands totalling just 458 square kilometres lie in the North Pacific Ocean, south east of the Philippines.
After three decades as part of the United Nation Trust Territory under U.S. administration, this westernmost cluster of the Caroline Islands opted for independence in 1978 rather than join the Federated States of Micronesia
Thirty-one-year old Israel Brel is a member of the Palau National Police, Bureau of Public Safety. He is just over half way through his Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands as an advisior in the Close Personal Protection Unit in Honiara.
Israel is one of a team that provides around the clock extreme security to the prime minister. He explains that his hours of work reflect this.
“We must be available to work in with the prime minister’s schedule,” he says.
Back in Ngerbodel, Ranchers, Izzy, as he likes to be known, has worked as a police officer for nine years. He is currently assigned to the Division of Corrections’ Koror Jail.
He describes his home town of 31 years as coastal with warm weather temperatures, with a beautiful rock island and white sandy beaches.
Izzy enjoys making the most of these attractive tropical surroundings. He visits the beach and the Rock Island regularly with his wife Lulu and their five children.
In his leisure time Izzy also loves to fish, and play sport, especially basketball. He enjoys working out in the gym.
While on mission, he has formed a special bond with members of Participating Police Forces from other Pacific Islands, and regularly meets them for fun times at the Amos Solip Leaf Hut at GBR.
Israel is enjoying being able to help the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, sharing his experience, skill and knowledge of police work with those he advises.
He believes that he too will benefit from this capacity building mission.
“Travelling overseas, meeting other people, and experiencing a new culture. I have gained a lot that will benefit myself and my country,” he says.
“By being an open hearted person, accepting what you see and feel, and adjusting your ways you will get so much out of a mission like this.”
