Acting Mayor Patrick Manglona welcomed to the island Gen. Howie Chandler, vice chief of staff of the U.S. Air Force, and Maj. Gen. Douglas Owens, vice commander, Pacific Air Forces.
Don Farrel, local historian and symposium organizing chairman, said Barbara Alberti, regional director for the National Park Service and other NPS personnel also arrived yesterday.
Municipal officials and symposium organizing committee members brought the visitors to the island’s North Field atomic bomb pits.
Sandbergen said the governor’s office informed them on Tuesday afternoon that Gov. Benigno R. Fitial might not be able to attend the event but CNMI Congressman Gregorio C. Sablan had already confirmed his attendance.
Farrel said Alberti is expected to meet with the Tinian leadership to discuss National Park Service issues.
On Aug. 6, the symposium guests and members of the Tinian community will meet at the North Field atomic bomb pits at 8:30 a.m. for a memorial service.
Sandbergen said the Blue Knights Honor Guard from the 36th Wing Andersen Air Force Base on Guam will present the colors.
He said Tinian residents should not to be alarmed when they hear fire division sirens on Friday morning.
