Sequestration Service Changes Initiated at Hawai’i Navy Installations

File photo, American flag, by Wendy Osher.

By Wendy Osher

Navy installations in Hawai’i today began implementing changes to some services and programs in the face of the continuing resolution and effects of sequestration.

A list of affected services was released by the Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam that includes changes to some operations, facilities, and quality-of-life services.

“Our Navy has been required to make tough choices in the face of the continuing resolution and effects of sequestration,” said Rear Adm. Frank Ponds, commander, Navy Region Hawaii and Naval Surface Group Middle Pacific.

Rear Adm. Ponds said “tough choices” were set into motion with the announced start of sequestration by the secretary of the Navy on March 2.

“As we evaluate our priorities and make required adjustments to services and hours of operation, we do so with a full and unwavering commitment to readiness, support to warfighters and families; and our ability to operate forward,” said Rear Adm. Ponds.

High-visibility services affected include morale, welfare and recreation programs and some port operations. Services not impacted include: health and safety, repairs, primary child development centers, and most family programs.

At Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, water taxi service between Charlie and Lima Landings will be discontinued after the last run today.

Cable TV has been discontinued in transient common areas, lounges and offices at the base.

Other quality-of-life areas, including gyms and fitness centers, liberty centers, library and arts and crafts centers, have updated their hours of operation.

At Pacific Missile Range Facility, Kauai changes in services and facilities as a result of the effects of sequestration will be announced to the staff directly.

“Our focus is on executing the changes in the smartest manner possible with the least impact to customers,” said Capt. Jeff James, joint base commander. “We will continue to keep the safety and well-being of our people foremost in mind,” he said.