UPDATE: Evacuees from Guantanamo Bay are returning home after being sheltered at NAS Pensacola following the devastating impacts of Hurricane Melissa. The storm, which struck the Caribbean in late October, caused significant destruction, prompting the military to evacuate personnel for their safety.
Starting today, those who sought refuge at NAS Pensacola are finally heading back home as repairs have been completed. Navy officials had ordered the evacuation due to the storm’s imminent threat, which left behind a trail of destruction. “From the onset of us receiving the order to execute, we were out the door,” said Command Master Chief Kenneth Nixon, the Naval Station Guantanamo Bay Command Master Chief. He praised NAS Pensacola for their quick response and support during the evacuation.
NAS Pensacola activated its Emergency Family Assistance Center, providing critical support like food, clothing, and shelter to the evacuees. Organizations such as the American Red Cross and the United Services Organization (USO) collaborated to ensure the needs of those displaced were met. “What it’s really truly about is sailors taking care of sailors,” Nixon added, highlighting the community’s effort and dedication.
The local community also played a significant role, donating meals, pet food, and supplies to help evacuees feel at home during their stay. Over the past three weeks, residents of Guantanamo Bay worked tirelessly to repair the damage caused by Hurricane Melissa, and now they are eager to reunite with their loved ones.
“It’s really good to finally send them home to their families who have been essential in repairing the island,” stated Captain Chandra ‘Mamassan’ Newman, the Naval Air Station Commanding Officer. He emphasized the outstanding support from the community and the Navy personnel who worked around the clock during this crisis.
As the evacuees return, the focus will shift to the ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts on Guantanamo Bay. With the storm now behind them, the community looks forward to restoring normalcy and ensuring the safety of all residents.
This developing story highlights the resilience of both the military and local communities in times of crisis. Stay tuned for further updates on the recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.
