Army Maj. Gen. Stephen Tom said it was the first formal agreement signed by the military with the CNMI.
Similar covenants have been signed with other communities across the nation.
On July 4, Tom said the covenant was signed in Hawaii and they’re very pleased to have it signed at Saipan’s American Memorial Park on the next day.
The Army Community Covenant aims to build strong communities. It is committed to “building partnerships that support the strength, resilience, and readiness of soldiers and other service members and their families.”
“This covenant is the commitment of the CNMI community to take care of its locally based military members and families,” Tom said.
He noted that the local Echo Company is now preparing for its second deployment to the Middle East later this month.
Saipan Mayor Juan B. Tudela, Tinian Mayor Jose P. San Nicolas and Rota Mayor Joseph S. Inos signed the covenant.
Gov. Benigno R. Fitial, in his message, said the covenant signing was a fitting event because it followed the 62nd anniversary of the islands’ Liberation Day.
“We are very humbled by the fact that we are now a member of the American political family,” he said. “We are very pleased to sign this agreement for our service members and their families.”
He said it was retired Judge Edward Manibusan who initiated the signing of the covenant.
Saipan Chamber of Commerce president Jim Arenovski believes that the agreement of commitment is a “great step” for the commonwealth.
Rear Adm. William French, commander of Naval Forces Marianas, said the event showed everybody’s “patriotism” and “commitment” to the military.
Other signatories of the covenant included Mariano Fajardo, commander of VFW Post 3457; John Hirsh, executive director of the local Red Cross; and Rita L. Chargualaf, leader of the CNMI Family Readiness Group.
