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WHY are members of the military always condemned for what they are supposed to do -- that is, to train to be prepared for any conflict or humanitarian requirement our government deems necessary? Military is taken
for grantedFor the past several years, I've seen the military's needs and requirements continue to grow in this country while, at the same time, its budget is cut, along with military benefits. In addition, military manpower is now at dangerously low levels.
That's why I can't understand why people complain about the military being here, about their training and the noise level this training can sometimes cause.
Some of the complaints are from Mililani residents about the use of helicopters and noise from the Schofield Barracks East Range.
While I can appreciate how the noise may be a problem, don't these people realize the importance of these helicopters and training?
If I was your son, daughter, husband or wife who was in the military, wouldn't you want me to be trained in a manner that might save my life, or the life of the person next to me? (By the way, there are ways to soundproof a home that can be as simple as adding double-pane glass to the windows and doors.)
How strange that no one complained about the noise level during the recent fire that closed H-2 earlier this month. After seeing all the Army Black Hawks and Chinooks assisting in fighting the fire along H-2 -- a combined military/city effort that saved lives, homes and businesses -- I would have thought someone would say mahalo.
YET I didn't see a single letter to the editor thanking the military for helping out in a situation that could have been a disaster.
What about all of the rescue operations that the Army's helicopter medical evacuation team does?
The 68th Medical Company, located at Wheeler Air Field, recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. During that quarter decade, the unit has transported more than 6,000 trauma patients, saved Hawaii taxpayers more than $4.8 million and affected countless lives.
Thus far in 2000, Army MEDEVACs transported more than 70 patients. But, again, there is no thank you for the military.
Last month, I attended a community meeting on the Waianae Coast. That evening, two representatives from a Navy Seal team were also in attendance.
While they didn't need to be there, these dedicated sailors asked the board for permission to allow four of their team members to swim to shore near Yokohama Bay, to climb a mountain and then swim back.
This was to be accomplished between midnight and 2 a.m. in an area that is isolated, especially at that time of night, and with the personnel carrying only simulated weapons and no live ammunition. Training like this is essential to keep the Seals proficient in their skills.
HAPPILY, many of the board members in attendance did appear to support the military. One pointed out how the Army had helped so many times at local schools with beach clean-ups, after disasters and with other problems the community has encountered.
Besides economic support in the form of employment and contracting, the military has also brought much needed subsistence to Hawaii's education system.
This past year, the federal government gave the state Department of Education approximately $42 million in impact aide. In addition, the Department of Defense gave another $4.8 million to assist in repairs and maintenance of island schools.
In essence, those who serve in the military in Hawaii are and want to be good neighbors. Just take a look at the facts. How about saying mahalo every once in a while?
Ron Joy is a Makakilo resident and
former chief of community relations for the Pacific Air Forces
at Hickam Air Force Base.