MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- A recent routine test of water samples from Camp Pendleton's southern housing areas indicated that water in some of those residences does not meet state and federal standards for lead in drinking water.
Base officials have confirmed these initial results and are conducting a proactive information campaign of informing residents through the local news media, base information venues and meetings with base residents.
“I'm using the same protocol as if my family members were in those homes,” said Brig. Gen. Michael L. Lehnert, Com-manding General, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. “I'd rather err on the side of caution than put anyone at risk. Safety is paramount. We take care of our own.”
“Our first priority is the safety of our service members and their families, they are by far our most valuable asset,” said Col. Stewart R. Navarre, Chief of Staff, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.
“All occupants of the affected households have been notified in person and are being contacted by a physician from the Naval Hospital,” said Navarre.
Colonel Navarre added that screening and bottled water are available to anyone living in base housing who has concerns.
“We want to make sure anyone who is concerned with their health will receive testing,” Navarre said.
Of the 60 random homes tested aboard Camp Pendleton in August, 11 exceeded the permissible level of lead, according to base officials. Seven of the 11 homes are occupied.
The standard for lead in drinking water is 15 parts per billion.
All housing that exceeded the action level are located in the South Mesa, Serra Mesa, San Luis Rey, Santa Margarita and Del Mar housing areas and are supported by the Base's southern water system.
Approximately 38,000 personnel, including families, troops and civilian personnel work in areas serviced by the southern water system.
Base officials have scheduled additional testing of the 11 homes as well as adjacent homes, schools, child development centers and barracks, according to Lupe Armas, Assistant Chief of Staff, Envi-ronmental Security.
“We are working very aggressively to confirm the results of the samples and inspecting homes for the possible lead source,” said Col. Russell A. Eve, Assistant Chief of Staff for Facilities, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.
Colonel Eve added that nothing will be assumed, and base officials will be checking the entire southern water system from source wells to the tap.
Family members were afforded an opportunity to meet with senior leadership and subject matter experts from environmental security, family housing and the Camp Pendleton Naval Hospital.
While some residents showed concern, others voiced their appreciation for the informative meetings. “I'll admit, I'm nervous,” said Sgt. Robert E. Ellis, network technician, BSSG-1.
“But, I will say that by senior leaders coming to meet and inform us, it shows their genuine concern,” he said.
Ellis attended a recent meeting with base officials with his wife Mary and son Michael, 8 months.
“It shows they honestly care ... that's important to each individual Marine,” he said.
Any questions or concerns about housing should be directed to the Central Family Housing Office at 725-1656.
Concerns about health should be directed to the appropriate health care provider and additional re-quests for health related information can be directed to the Naval Hospital Occu-pational Medicine Department at 725-1626 or 725-1048.
In babies and children, lead in drinking water can result in delays in physical and mental development.
Adults, although they areless susceptible than children, can also experience adverse health effects.
Again, individuals with health concerns should discuss this with their health care provider and if appropriate, may be given a blood test to determine lead exposure.
For more information call 1-866-430-2764 and see related Commander's Corner article on page A4.