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NASNI Provides Makeshift Shelter Wildfire Victims

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS071025-12
Release Date: 10/25/2007 3:48:00 PM

By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman (SW) Sarah E. Bitter, Fleet Public Affairs Center Pacific

NORTH ISLAND, Calif. (NNS) -- Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI) provided shelter for service members and retirees and their families who were displaced from their homes due to raging wildfires in the greater Southern California area that began Oct. 21.

"We have created a basic needs shelter for the ones in need," said Capt. Anthony Gaiani, NASNI commanding officer. "Yesterday we had nothing, but because of the support of the community we are doing very well here we have 390 cots, food, entertainment and basic medical assistance."

The base gym was converted to a makeshift living space and was supported by base personal and volunteers from the area.

"I wanted to volunteer my time and help out my fellow Sailors," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuel) 3rd Class (AW) Quantez Greene from USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). "It also gives me an opportunity to give something back. It really makes me feel good to help."

In addition to the NASNI shelter, Navy Region Southwest has opened other temporary shelters at Naval Base San Diego and Naval Amphibious Base Coronado. Barracks rooms have also been opened up to support military families.

"This is great. I am really not worried. I know that the Navy is going to take care of us no matter what, they always do," said one Navy spouse.

Navy Region Southwest bases remain open to all military personnel and their families during the crisis, but only key and essential personnel are required to report for work.

Military or civilian members of the Navy family that have been affected by the Southern California wildfires should log on to the Navy Family Accountability and Assessment System at http://www.navyfamily.navy.mil to report their current status.

An estimated 200,000 acres and in San Diego County have been affected by the fires and at least 513,000 residents have sought refuge in shelters, schools and stadiums as fires pushed into new areas.