The problem with Camp Pendleton water

On Saturday mornings, my wife and I protest outside Camp Pendleton’s front gate for the Hamdania and Haditha marine enlisted foot soldiers. We protest the lack of true leadership exhibited by Marine General Helland.

On May 17, while talking to the mother of a wounded marine, the topic of drinking water on Camp Pendleton was discussed. We were informed that the Marine command had, for married marines who inhabit apartments in Camp Pendleton, the following standing warning/order: do not allow your children or babies to drink the Camp Pendleton water. Furthermore, do not even boil the water and allow your children or babies to drink it. This order is targeted especially for babies and young children.

The Marine newspaper “The Camp Pendleton Scout” (5/22/03, page A-2) addressed this same problem five years ago. A Scout article informed readers that Base water mains are flushed quarterly (every three months). Flushing is required “to remove sediment that has built up to unacceptable levels.” The residents are warned that the water supply will be rust-colored during flushing, which will conclude at 4 p.m. each day. Laundry washing should be curtailed and/or rescheduled during these flushing cycles.

This is the same water the Santa Margarita Conjunctive Use Project will assign to FPUD. This disgusting water is utilized for human consumption by a huge Marine Base and must also be treated before use by FPUD. Problem: FPUD does not presently possess a (potable) water treatment plant.

Archie McPhee