Protesting RimPac Military Exercises in Hawaii

The bi-annual RimPac exercise in 2016 involves 26 nations(even including some NATO members), at least 45 warships, some 200+ aircraft, and more than 25,000 sailors and soldiers. It will involve live-fire and bombing missions both at sea around Hawaiian islands & southern California, and at Pohakuloa Training Area on Hawaii island. Pohakuloa has been used as a bombing and live-fire site for more than 50 years. It is contaminated with a wide range of military toxins, including Depleted Uranium(DU)weapons. Continuing bombing risks spreading the contamination downwind, endangering the lives of troops training there and residents and visitors alike. DU is particularly dangerous when small particles are inhaled and can cause cancer, birth defects and genetic damage. (Please Google the 14-minute video: "Pohakuloa--Now that you know...")

The small contingent of Peace activists on Hawaii island that held up "Protect Pohakuloa" banner and other signs protesting the bombing of sacred Hawaiian lands and seas, will be mobilizing for larger protest actions, including similar anti-RimPac demonstrations at Hilo and Kona airports in the entire month of July. These determined and courageous activists are asking for support from overseas as well. Peace and Imua(forward)!