The U.S. military has moved some of the assets currently in the Caribbean out of the expected path of Hurricane Melissa, which made landfall in Jamaica on Tuesday.
There is currently a much larger military presence in the Caribbean than in decades, as it conducts lethal kinetic strikes against purported drug smugglers, who are now at risk with the hurricane ripping through the area.
“They have implemented inclement weather plans and moved away from any area where current or forecasted weather conditions are hazardous and could potentially pose unacceptable levels of risk,” a US SOUTHCOM spokesperson told the Washington Examiner, declining to provide specifics about the movements of the U.S. personnel for operational security.
There are several warships, several dozen aircraft, and thousands of troops in the region currently, with the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier strike group on its way.
“Despite these recent actions, they remain ready and able to accomplish their assigned missions with the highest degree of professionalism, utmost excellence, and unrivaled expertise,” the spokesperson added.
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced on Tuesday that a day earlier, the military fired three lethal strikes on four vessels in the eastern Pacific Ocean, killing 14 people and leaving one survivor. The military has targeted more than a dozen vessels in this campaign and has killed more than 50 people, whom the administration has deemed armed combatants.
The administration has not provided evidence to prove these ships were carrying drugs intended for the United States.
The military has often been called upon to help countries respond to the devastation caused by natural disasters, and could be involved in the aid required after Hurricane Melissa.
“As part of their readiness training, our servicemembers always approach every mission and situation with safety as a paramount consideration, and they are well prepared to respond to a range of conditions and scenarios, including emergencies and natural disasters, to ensure the health and welfare of the force, and safeguard vital defense equipment and resources,” the spokesperson said.
NEW US BOAT STRIKES IN EASTERN PACIFIC RAISES DEATH TOLL TO MORE THAN 50
The U.S. Navy relocated more than 800 non-essential personnel from Naval Station Guantanamo Bay to safety last weekend before the storm made landfall, according to Naval Air Station Pensacola.
“The safety and well-being of our Navy family is always a primary concern,” said NAS Pensacola Commanding Officer Capt. Chandra ‘Mamasan’ Newman. “The Sailors and civilian employees here are dedicated and adaptable, making sure they accomplish our Navy mission –and right now that’s taking care of our Navy family from Guantanamo Bay.”
