The Navy is planning to expand SEAL training to 29 state parks and 39 additional private/public sites around Puget Sound and the Olympic coast. A “Finding of No Significant Impact” was issued, meaning the Navy is giving itself the go-ahead to implement the training plan including simulated combat training, combat swimmers, 72-hour covert surveillance, and insertion/extraction in state parks.

The SEAL teams need training, however, the current training seems to be doing a fine job creating one of the most effective elite forces anywhere. The Navy seeks access to over 250 miles of our coastline in addition to the 46 miles already available for training.

This includes simulated combat training at Ft. Worden’s Peace Park. Ironic or tragic?

Training in state parks seems unnecessary and potentially dangerous. Are the parks liable for any mishaps? Will tourists be scared off? Will children be traumatized? Is use of simulated firearms permitted in state parks?

One of the key responsibilities for civil authorities is to tell the military when enough is enough. If the citizens don’t put limits on military activities, expansion will never cease. It is up to us, the citizenry, to take that stand and draw the appropriate line. It is not unpatriotic or disrespectful to set limits on the military – it is our responsibility.

Fortunately, the Navy requires permission from the Washington State Parks, and the commission is seeking public input. Write to mike.sternback@parks.wa.gov Asst. Dir, Operations.

Just say No to using public parks for military training.

Larry Morrell

Port Townsend