Where are the Seabees?
As a retired Seabee, I am appalled at the fact that the U.S. Navy Seabees are not on island providing support! They work under Commander Naval Forces Marianas and here to support the entire region. Additionally, the Seabees are self-sustaining, can deploy within 72 hours, and should have been on island three to four days after the storm passed. I emailed the governor three days ago but have yet to receive a response. I just pray to God that we in the CNMI are not being used as “pawns” in a chess match over the military buildup talks by either parties. That should be placed on the back burner at this time of suffering.
Charles A. George
Chalan Kanoa, Saipan
Sir, you nailed it. I’ve seen the seabees deployed many typhoons ago. Hopefully they are considering loaning heavy equipment.
Charles, you are right.. Its a big PR moment for the US MIL Mgmt to showcase the Marines and how important they should have the islands to do as they please. So naturally, they held back the Seabees bringing in the Marines. Boost the arguments of those that say yes and deflate the naysayers… Whelden and Co. think we are dummies..
If I was US MiL mgmt, I would have stayed neutral and sent Seabees.. And let the locals decide; stay out of the Kool Aid if you will. Not that my family and I think any lesser of Marines mind you.