File:US Navy 060529-N-6501M-014 Col. Jeffery Swartz, of Smithtown, New Jersey, observes the technique used by a Filipino dentist to extract a tooth.jpg

Isabella, Republic of the Philippines - (May 29, 2006) Col. Jeffery Swartz, of Smithtown, New Jersey, observes the technique used by a Filipino dentist to extract a tooth. Col. Swartz is a Dental Officer aboard the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) hospital ship, USNS Mercy (T-AH 19), and was able to participate in a Medical Civil Action Program (MEDCAP) located on Basilon Island, just south of Zamboanga City. Medical and dental services were provided by doctors and staff, together with non-governmental organizations. MEDCAPs are an integral part of Mercy's humanitarian mission and provide a multitude of medical, dental and veterinary care for the people who live in this region. Mercy is embarked on a five-month humanitarian deployment to South and Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. Mercy is able to rapidly respond to a range of situations on short notice and is capable of supporting medical and humanitarian assistance needs with special medical equipment and a multi-specialized medical team, providing a range of services ashore as well as aboard the ship. The medical staff is augmented with an assistance crew, many of whom are part of non-governmental organizations that have significant medical capabilities. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Photographer's Mate Edward G. Martens (RELEASED)