LAMAT 2026 delivers care, builds readiness in Suriname Published April 29, 2026 By Capt. Danny Rangel Air Forces Southern PARAMARIBO, Suriname -- U.S. Air Force medical personnel and Surinamese health care providers concluded a two-week health security cooperation engagement during a closing ceremony for the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 at Suriname’s Ministry of Health headquarters, April 23, 2026. The mission integrated 47 U.S. medical and support personnel with Surinamese counterparts across multiple sites in Paramaribo, Nickerie and Brownsweg, delivering patient care while strengthening clinical capability and building readiness through hands-on treatment and deliberate knowledge exchange. “LAMAT is not just about what one nation provides to another; it’s about what we build together,” said Brig. Gen. Eveline Yao, Air Force Medical Command special assistant to the commander. “While patients receive care that is deeply meaningful, what matters just as much is that both our teams leave stronger, more capable and more ready for what comes next. When our nations are called, whether for disaster response or humanitarian crises or contingency operations, we are prepared to act quickly, effectively and together.” 260423-F-ZB805-1218 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, delivers remarks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 integrated U.S. Air Force medical teams with Suriname Ministry of Health providers across the country, expanding access to care to over 2,000 patients while strengthening clinical capability, coordination and readiness through sustained partnership. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res SLIDESHOW | images | 260423-F-ZB805-1218 260423-F-ZB805-1367 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 1 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1341 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. By investing in missions that merge humanitarian outcomes with readiness objectives, the Air Force enhances both regional stability and operational preparedness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 2 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1218 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, delivers remarks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 integrated U.S. Air Force medical teams with Suriname Ministry of Health providers across the country, expanding access to care to over 2,000 patients while strengthening clinical capability, coordination and readiness through sustained partnership. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 3 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1197 A U.S. Airman attends the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The LAMAT 2026 team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 4 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1193 U.S. Air Force Maj. Doug Norrick, 434th Aerospace Medicine Squadron optometrist, listens to remarks of the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 medical teams provided care to more than 2,000 patients while working alongside Surinamese providers to share knowledge and expand access to care across the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 5 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1150 U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Eveline Yao, Air Force Medical Command special assistant to the commander, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony highlighted the partnership developed between the U.S. and Suriname during medical engagements and the value of building critical relationships in both countries. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 6 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1081 U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Preeti Jois, Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission commander, answers questions from the media after the closing ceremony of the LAMAT 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony marked the end of the medical engagement, which was a collaborative effort to share knowledge, enhance readiness and strengthen critical relationships between U.S. and Surinamese practitioners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 7 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1023 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony was a two week culmination of integration, coordination and cooperation between U.S. and host nation medical teams, with a focus on delivering critical care at different sites across the country while strengthening relationships and exchanging knowledge. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 8 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1341 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. By investing in missions that merge humanitarian outcomes with readiness objectives, the Air Force enhances both regional stability and operational preparedness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res SLIDESHOW | images | 260423-F-ZB805-1341 260423-F-ZB805-1367 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 1 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1341 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. By investing in missions that merge humanitarian outcomes with readiness objectives, the Air Force enhances both regional stability and operational preparedness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 2 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1218 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, delivers remarks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 integrated U.S. Air Force medical teams with Suriname Ministry of Health providers across the country, expanding access to care to over 2,000 patients while strengthening clinical capability, coordination and readiness through sustained partnership. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 3 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1197 A U.S. Airman attends the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The LAMAT 2026 team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 4 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1193 U.S. Air Force Maj. Doug Norrick, 434th Aerospace Medicine Squadron optometrist, listens to remarks of the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 medical teams provided care to more than 2,000 patients while working alongside Surinamese providers to share knowledge and expand access to care across the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 5 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1150 U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Eveline Yao, Air Force Medical Command special assistant to the commander, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony highlighted the partnership developed between the U.S. and Suriname during medical engagements and the value of building critical relationships in both countries. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 6 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1081 U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Preeti Jois, Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission commander, answers questions from the media after the closing ceremony of the LAMAT 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony marked the end of the medical engagement, which was a collaborative effort to share knowledge, enhance readiness and strengthen critical relationships between U.S. and Surinamese practitioners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 7 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1023 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony was a two week culmination of integration, coordination and cooperation between U.S. and host nation medical teams, with a focus on delivering critical care at different sites across the country while strengthening relationships and exchanging knowledge. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 8 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1367 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res SLIDESHOW | images | 260423-F-ZB805-1367 260423-F-ZB805-1367 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 1 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1341 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. By investing in missions that merge humanitarian outcomes with readiness objectives, the Air Force enhances both regional stability and operational preparedness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 2 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1218 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, delivers remarks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 integrated U.S. Air Force medical teams with Suriname Ministry of Health providers across the country, expanding access to care to over 2,000 patients while strengthening clinical capability, coordination and readiness through sustained partnership. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 3 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1197 A U.S. Airman attends the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The LAMAT 2026 team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 4 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1193 U.S. Air Force Maj. Doug Norrick, 434th Aerospace Medicine Squadron optometrist, listens to remarks of the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 medical teams provided care to more than 2,000 patients while working alongside Surinamese providers to share knowledge and expand access to care across the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 5 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1150 U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Eveline Yao, Air Force Medical Command special assistant to the commander, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony highlighted the partnership developed between the U.S. and Suriname during medical engagements and the value of building critical relationships in both countries. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 6 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1081 U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Preeti Jois, Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission commander, answers questions from the media after the closing ceremony of the LAMAT 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony marked the end of the medical engagement, which was a collaborative effort to share knowledge, enhance readiness and strengthen critical relationships between U.S. and Surinamese practitioners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 7 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1023 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony was a two week culmination of integration, coordination and cooperation between U.S. and host nation medical teams, with a focus on delivering critical care at different sites across the country while strengthening relationships and exchanging knowledge. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 8 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1193 U.S. Air Force Maj. Doug Norrick, 434th Aerospace Medicine Squadron optometrist, listens to remarks of the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 medical teams provided care to more than 2,000 patients while working alongside Surinamese providers to share knowledge and expand access to care across the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res SLIDESHOW | images | 260423-F-ZB805-1193 260423-F-ZB805-1367 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 1 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1341 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. By investing in missions that merge humanitarian outcomes with readiness objectives, the Air Force enhances both regional stability and operational preparedness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 2 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1218 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, delivers remarks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 integrated U.S. Air Force medical teams with Suriname Ministry of Health providers across the country, expanding access to care to over 2,000 patients while strengthening clinical capability, coordination and readiness through sustained partnership. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 3 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1197 A U.S. Airman attends the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The LAMAT 2026 team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 4 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1193 U.S. Air Force Maj. Doug Norrick, 434th Aerospace Medicine Squadron optometrist, listens to remarks of the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 medical teams provided care to more than 2,000 patients while working alongside Surinamese providers to share knowledge and expand access to care across the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 5 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1150 U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Eveline Yao, Air Force Medical Command special assistant to the commander, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony highlighted the partnership developed between the U.S. and Suriname during medical engagements and the value of building critical relationships in both countries. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 6 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1081 U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Preeti Jois, Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission commander, answers questions from the media after the closing ceremony of the LAMAT 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony marked the end of the medical engagement, which was a collaborative effort to share knowledge, enhance readiness and strengthen critical relationships between U.S. and Surinamese practitioners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 7 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1023 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony was a two week culmination of integration, coordination and cooperation between U.S. and host nation medical teams, with a focus on delivering critical care at different sites across the country while strengthening relationships and exchanging knowledge. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 8 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1150 U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Eveline Yao, Air Force Medical Command special assistant to the commander, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony highlighted the partnership developed between the U.S. and Suriname during medical engagements and the value of building critical relationships in both countries. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res SLIDESHOW | images | 260423-F-ZB805-1150 260423-F-ZB805-1367 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 1 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1341 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. By investing in missions that merge humanitarian outcomes with readiness objectives, the Air Force enhances both regional stability and operational preparedness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 2 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1218 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, delivers remarks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 integrated U.S. Air Force medical teams with Suriname Ministry of Health providers across the country, expanding access to care to over 2,000 patients while strengthening clinical capability, coordination and readiness through sustained partnership. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 3 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1197 A U.S. Airman attends the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The LAMAT 2026 team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 4 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1193 U.S. Air Force Maj. Doug Norrick, 434th Aerospace Medicine Squadron optometrist, listens to remarks of the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 medical teams provided care to more than 2,000 patients while working alongside Surinamese providers to share knowledge and expand access to care across the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 5 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1150 U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Eveline Yao, Air Force Medical Command special assistant to the commander, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony highlighted the partnership developed between the U.S. and Suriname during medical engagements and the value of building critical relationships in both countries. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 6 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1081 U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Preeti Jois, Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission commander, answers questions from the media after the closing ceremony of the LAMAT 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony marked the end of the medical engagement, which was a collaborative effort to share knowledge, enhance readiness and strengthen critical relationships between U.S. and Surinamese practitioners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 7 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1023 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony was a two week culmination of integration, coordination and cooperation between U.S. and host nation medical teams, with a focus on delivering critical care at different sites across the country while strengthening relationships and exchanging knowledge. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 8 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1081 U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Preeti Jois, Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission commander, answers questions from the media after the closing ceremony of the LAMAT 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony marked the end of the medical engagement, which was a collaborative effort to share knowledge, enhance readiness and strengthen critical relationships between U.S. and Surinamese practitioners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res SLIDESHOW | images | 260423-F-ZB805-1081 260423-F-ZB805-1367 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 1 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1341 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. By investing in missions that merge humanitarian outcomes with readiness objectives, the Air Force enhances both regional stability and operational preparedness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 2 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1218 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, delivers remarks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 integrated U.S. Air Force medical teams with Suriname Ministry of Health providers across the country, expanding access to care to over 2,000 patients while strengthening clinical capability, coordination and readiness through sustained partnership. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 3 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1197 A U.S. Airman attends the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The LAMAT 2026 team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 4 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1193 U.S. Air Force Maj. Doug Norrick, 434th Aerospace Medicine Squadron optometrist, listens to remarks of the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 medical teams provided care to more than 2,000 patients while working alongside Surinamese providers to share knowledge and expand access to care across the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 5 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1150 U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Eveline Yao, Air Force Medical Command special assistant to the commander, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony highlighted the partnership developed between the U.S. and Suriname during medical engagements and the value of building critical relationships in both countries. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 6 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1081 U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Preeti Jois, Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission commander, answers questions from the media after the closing ceremony of the LAMAT 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony marked the end of the medical engagement, which was a collaborative effort to share knowledge, enhance readiness and strengthen critical relationships between U.S. and Surinamese practitioners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 7 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1023 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony was a two week culmination of integration, coordination and cooperation between U.S. and host nation medical teams, with a focus on delivering critical care at different sites across the country while strengthening relationships and exchanging knowledge. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 8 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1023 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony was a two week culmination of integration, coordination and cooperation between U.S. and host nation medical teams, with a focus on delivering critical care at different sites across the country while strengthening relationships and exchanging knowledge. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res SLIDESHOW | images | 260423-F-ZB805-1023 260423-F-ZB805-1367 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 1 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1341 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. By investing in missions that merge humanitarian outcomes with readiness objectives, the Air Force enhances both regional stability and operational preparedness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 2 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1218 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, delivers remarks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 integrated U.S. Air Force medical teams with Suriname Ministry of Health providers across the country, expanding access to care to over 2,000 patients while strengthening clinical capability, coordination and readiness through sustained partnership. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 3 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1197 A U.S. Airman attends the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The LAMAT 2026 team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 4 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1193 U.S. Air Force Maj. Doug Norrick, 434th Aerospace Medicine Squadron optometrist, listens to remarks of the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 medical teams provided care to more than 2,000 patients while working alongside Surinamese providers to share knowledge and expand access to care across the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 5 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1150 U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Eveline Yao, Air Force Medical Command special assistant to the commander, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony highlighted the partnership developed between the U.S. and Suriname during medical engagements and the value of building critical relationships in both countries. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 6 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1081 U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Preeti Jois, Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission commander, answers questions from the media after the closing ceremony of the LAMAT 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony marked the end of the medical engagement, which was a collaborative effort to share knowledge, enhance readiness and strengthen critical relationships between U.S. and Surinamese practitioners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 7 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1023 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony was a two week culmination of integration, coordination and cooperation between U.S. and host nation medical teams, with a focus on delivering critical care at different sites across the country while strengthening relationships and exchanging knowledge. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 8 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1197 A U.S. Airman attends the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The LAMAT 2026 team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res SLIDESHOW | images | 260423-F-ZB805-1197 260423-F-ZB805-1367 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 1 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1341 Paul Watzlavick, Chargé d'Affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo, talks to the media after the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. By investing in missions that merge humanitarian outcomes with readiness objectives, the Air Force enhances both regional stability and operational preparedness. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 2 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1218 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, delivers remarks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 integrated U.S. Air Force medical teams with Suriname Ministry of Health providers across the country, expanding access to care to over 2,000 patients while strengthening clinical capability, coordination and readiness through sustained partnership. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 3 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1197 A U.S. Airman attends the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The LAMAT 2026 team collectively treated a total of 2,000 patients, provided over 3,000 eyeglasses and conducted 432 knowledge exchange hours together with their counterparts in Suriname. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 4 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1193 U.S. Air Force Maj. Doug Norrick, 434th Aerospace Medicine Squadron optometrist, listens to remarks of the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. LAMAT 2026 medical teams provided care to more than 2,000 patients while working alongside Surinamese providers to share knowledge and expand access to care across the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 5 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1150 U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Eveline Yao, Air Force Medical Command special assistant to the commander, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony highlighted the partnership developed between the U.S. and Suriname during medical engagements and the value of building critical relationships in both countries. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 6 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1081 U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Preeti Jois, Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission commander, answers questions from the media after the closing ceremony of the LAMAT 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony marked the end of the medical engagement, which was a collaborative effort to share knowledge, enhance readiness and strengthen critical relationships between U.S. and Surinamese practitioners. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 7 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res 260423-F-ZB805-1023 Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Ministry of Health director, speaks during the closing ceremony of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team 2026 mission in Paramaribo, Suriname, April 23, 2026. The ceremony was a two week culmination of integration, coordination and cooperation between U.S. and host nation medical teams, with a focus on delivering critical care at different sites across the country while strengthening relationships and exchanging knowledge. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff. Sgt. Madeline Herzog) 8 of 8 Photo Details / Download Hi-Res That shared focus on readiness and partnership was reflected during the closing ceremony, attended by officials from the U.S. Embassy Paramaribo and Suriname’s defense and health ministries, marking the culmination of coordinated medical engagements. Over the course of the mission, teams treated more than 2,000 patients, provided more than 3,000 eyeglasses and completed 432 hours of knowledge exchange alongside Surinamese counterparts. Officials emphasized LAMAT 2026 as a key effort in strengthening enduring partnerships between the United States and Suriname. “You know who your friends are by who shows up, and that’s what we do, that’s what we’ve done for decades,” said Paul Watzlavick, chargé d’affaires, U.S. Embassy Paramaribo. “It’s not only healthcare, but it’s also skills-building, capacity-building, it’s relationship-building. Medical care is a critical part, but it’s the people-to-people relationships, the ability to build lasting connections that’s important.” Surinamese leaders highlighted the impact of the collaboration and the value of shared expertise. “We are thankful to support LAMAT 2026,” said Dr. Rakesh Sukul, Suriname Ministry of Health director. “This mission comes after much planning, and I pass on my sincere thanks to the entire team and the entire United States for this effort. There is always room here to have this collaboration and to make use of your skills, to learn from each other. With this partnership, we will achieve our goal of serving patients, and we hope to go further.” Across all locations, medical teams delivered care while operating in resource-limited environments, adapting to dynamic conditions and working side by side with host nation providers to share techniques and strengthen collective capability. The experience provided participating personnel opportunities to refine clinical skills, increase adaptability and enhance readiness to operate in austere and contingency environments. LAMAT 2026 is part of a series of U.S. Air Force-led medical engagements across Latin America and the Caribbean designed to strengthen partnerships, improve interoperability and enhance the readiness of participating forces while delivering essential care.