Stardate 20030119.1500

(On Screen): Despite the fact that we are in a war, and despite the fact that realistic training is essential for effective operations, the US will indeed close the Vieques bombing range in May. Given that they've been firing live ordnance at that section of Vieques island since 1947, that land won't be usable for anything else for decades because of the danger from unexploded shells. However, it will provide peace-of-mind for the 9100 people who live on the other end of the island, and I guess that's more important than keeping our sailors alive during a shooting war.

Of course, that brings into question the continued existence of the Roosevelt Roads Naval Station, which is reported to be worth $300 million per year to the economy of Puerto Rican economy. It existed to support operations on the firing range, and if the firing range no longer can be used then there's no longer any reason for that base to exist.

The Governor of Puerto Rico hopes that it will remain open anyway.

Gov. Sila Calderon, who had pressed for a halt to the training, said Wednesday that her government will lobby for the base on the main island of Puerto Rico to remain open. With some 4,800 employees and temporary contractors, Roosevelt Roads is one of the the region's largest employers.

"The people of Puerto Rico don't have any interest in the closing of the Roosevelt Roads base," Calderon said. "The government of Puerto Rico is interested in that base staying in Puerto Rico, for all the economic benefits."

When we said we wanted you to leave, we didn't really mean we wanted you to, well, leave, you know. Stay and keep spending money; just don't do anything loud or important.

Once the Navy leaves Vieques, all operations at Roosevelt Roads associated with Vieques will be discontinued, Navy officials have said. Adm. Robert Natter, commander of the Atlantic Fleet, went further last week, saying: "Without Vieques there is no way I need the Navy facilities at Roosevelt Roads; none."

Other Navy officials said any decision about closing the base in eastern Puerto Rico would have to be made by an independent commission that has yet to begin its work.

When that commission finishes its work, Roosevelt Roads had better be the first entry on its list of bases to close.

By the way, guys, as far as I'm concerned you're still more than welcome to continue flying directly over my home carrying live ordnance to drop on Chocolate Mountain.