The 29th biennial Exercise Rim of the Pacific, or RIMPAC, is slated to run in and around the Hawaiian Islands starting June 27, but community activists gathered Monday to call for the military to cancel the multinational exercise.
KHON-TV2 reports that native Hawaiian groups and peace activists voiced their concerns about the military’s involvement in fueling violence and damaging the environment.
“Military presence and occupation is a threat to our ability to sustain life here in Hawaii and Oceania,” said Healani Sonoda-Pale, RIMPAC protester. “Global warming, rising seas and disappearing islands are being fueled by the U.S. military, the largest producer of greenhouse gases in the world.”
Reports said Vice Adm. John Wade took command of the U.S. 3rd Fleet and received overview briefs to review the full range of exercise elements.
In a statement, the U.S. 3rd Fleet said they respect everyone’s right to express their beliefs and hear their concerns.
“Our goal at RIMPAC is to strengthen our country’s security through cooperation with our partners and allies in an environmentally and culturally sensitive manner.”
RIMPAC will draw 29 nations and will send 40 surface ships, three submarines, 14 national land forces, and over 150 aircraft.
