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Press Release: Commandant Names 3 Panel Members to Review Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Events
(Release # 0317-04-0915)
Mar. 10, 2004

United States Marine Corps
Division of Public Affairs


HEADQUARTERS MARINE CORPS - The Commandant of the Marine Corps, General Mike Hagee, today identified the three members who will comprise an independent panel tasked with reviewing the events at Camp Lejeune between 1980 and 1985 that relate to a decision to close several drinking water wells impacted by volatile organic compounds.

They are:

The Honorable Ronald C. Packard, Representative of California’s 48th District (1983-2001), Panel Chairperson

General Richard D. Hearney, USMC (Ret.) former Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps (1994-1996)

The Honorable Robert B. Pirie, Jr., former Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Installations and Environment) (1994-2000)

"Each of the members I have appointed has earned the highest respect of his peers in his respective profession," said General Hagee. "Collectively, they possess a wealth of talent and experience. Individually, each has the integrity to guide them throughout this process." The independent review panel will spend six months reviewing documents and interviewing past and present base officials. This will be done to create a better understanding of the events that led to decisions made during this five-year period. The panel will have free and open access to all relevant information.

"We are deeply concerned about the health issues raised by members of our Marine Corps family and are working diligently to ensure that anyone affected during this period is well cared for," said Gen. Hagee. "Marines take care of each other on the battlefield and in garrison and this case is no different. A Marine is a Marine for life."

A report of the panel’s findings will be submitted to the Commandant six months after the panel commences its review. Further information on the panel’s charter and progress will be released as available and appropriate.

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