NEWS: Whats been happening recently

Welcome to the News Section of the Navy League Panama Chapter. Here, we share the latest updates, events, and highlights from our chapter’s activities, partnerships, and community engagements. From distinguished guest visits and naval ceremonies to special events aboard allied vessels, this section keeps our members and friends informed of our ongoing mission: to support the sea services, strengthen maritime cooperation, and celebrate naval traditions in Panama and beyond.

Stay tuned for regular reports, photographs, and insights into the dynamic work of the Navy League Panama Chapter.

U.S. NAVY BUILD-UP OFF VENEZUELA

The recent deployment of U.S. Navy warships off Venezuela marks one of the most significant American military buildups in the Caribbean in decades. Officially framed as counter-narcotics operations, the move signals a revival of gunboat diplomacy—pressuring Nicolás Maduro’s regime militarily and economically, while raising questions about whether mounting strain might ultimately force political change in Caracas.

Visit to USGCG Eagle

On September 4, 2025, the Navy League Panama Chapter had the distinguished honor of being invited aboard the United States Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) Eagle while she was berthed at the Amador cruise terminal. The visit marked a memorable occasion, blending naval tradition, international fellowship, and cultural exchange.

New President

Lieutenant Commander Stephen Harrison-Thomas PhD DSC, Royal Navy (Retired), has been appointed President of the Navy League Panama Chapter. A decorated Falklands War pilot, test pilot, airline captain, anti-narcotics aviator, author, and academic, he now brings decades of leadership and international experience to serve the League’s mission in Panama.

USCGC Eagle in Panama

The USCGC Eagle, America’s legendary tall ship, visited Panama on September 4, 2025, bringing history, diplomacy, and maritime tradition to the Amador Cruise Terminal. Known as the “Ambassador of Goodwill,” the ship showcased its majestic sails and training mission, strengthening U.S.–Panama cooperation through education, culture, and shared maritime heritage.

New U.S. Ambassador

The Navy League Panama proudly welcomes Kevin Marino Cabrera, the newly appointed U.S. Ambassador to Panama. Friendly, bilingual, and approachable, Ambassador Cabrera brings energy and experience to his mission. We first met him aboard the USCGC Eagle, where his enthusiasm for strengthening U.S.–Panama ties was immediately evident.

Panama's oldest member becomes a Doctor

At 89, historian David Richardson Pacheco Amador has been awarded a PhD by the Swiss School of Business Research for his groundbreaking research on the Battle of Monte Cassino. His decades of scholarship highlight the importance of preserving historical truth, a mission closely aligned with naval and military heritage.

Monthly dinners return

We are reinstating our monthly dinners with guest speakers, a much-loved tradition that brings our members together. The first dinner will feature our new President, Dr. Harrison-Thomas, who will share first-hand experiences of the Falklands War—an evening not to be missed. Details will follow soon on the website and by email.

Coming soon

What warships are off Venezuela

Here’s a breakdown of the principal U.S. Navy ship classes and specific vessels reported to be operating near Venezuela, with key characteristics, followed by what’s publicly known about Venezuelan naval assets entering the picture.

Maersk buys Panama Canal Railway

In early April 2025, APM Terminals, the terminal and logistics division of the Danish shipping giant A.P. Møller-Maersk Group, announced the acquisition of the Panama Canal Railway Company (PCRC). The purchase was made from Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (CPKC) and the Lanco Group/Mi-Jack.

Ships off Panama (1903)

In early November 1903, the calm tropical waters off Colón and Panama City bore silent witness to a momentous turning point in history. As Panama sought to break away from Colombia and declare its independence, naval ships from the United States and Colombia converged on the isthmus.

Submarine Aircraft Carriers that Targetted the Panama Canal

At the end of World War II, Japan built the largest submarines of their time—floating aircraft carriers designed to launch bombers against distant targets. Their most audacious mission was to cripple the Panama Canal, a plan that came closer to reality than many realize.