Frank G. Cepeda of the Office of Veterans and Military Affairs says the CNMI should invite military personnel on Guam to visit the Northern Marianas for rest and recreation.
“As a former service member myself, I know that staying in one particular area for a long time is demoralizing at times,” Cepeda said. “You need to be given an opportunity to go elsewhere to rejuvenate yourself,” he said.
“More military personnel visiting the Northern Marianas will also help our local economy, and that is why I’m asking the administration to look into this proposal,” Cepeda added.
There are 5,979 military personnel on Guam. The U.S. Naval Forces in the Marianas alone has 3,763 active duty Navy personnel.
Asked for comment, the deputy public affairs officer of the U.S. Naval Forces in the Marianas said Cepeda’s proposal is a “wonderful reward for service members.”
“It is a good thing for military members to get out and explore many other islands and not only Guam,” Michael Mithchell told Variety.
The “feasibility” of the proposal, however, may be an issue, he said, as “dedicating assets for R&R purposes would require serious consideration.”
Still, he said, “I am sure the proposal will be given due consideration, but many other factors will play a part in this decision.”
Lt. Gov. Diego T. Benavente said Cepeda’s proposal could help the local tourism industry.
“I want to thank him for coming up with this proposal. I think that’s what we need to do— go all out and encourage more visits,” Benavente said.
Cepeda said the Fourth of July festivities would allow the military personnel on Guam to visit the Northern Marianas.
Cepeda at the same time said he would also ask the business community to offer reduced rates to the visiting military personnel.
