Navy marine mammals shelter at PC

PANAMA CITY, Fla. - Nearly two dozen Navy marine mammals stationed at Kings Bay, Ga., were moved to NW Florida out of danger and ahead of Hurricane Dorian’s path and seeking shelter at Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City (NSWCPC) this past week. Mark Patefield, a biological technician from Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) in San Diego, says the animals are a key component of the Swimmer Interdiction Security System that security systems that helps protect against any underwater intruder that might come into Kings Bay,” said Patefield. Kings Bay is home to a Naval Submarine Base. Safety and care of the mammals and working staff is paramount; and that led them to Panama City. NSWCPC “opened up their … fantastic facility to allow us to shield our team from the path of Hurricane Dorian,” said Patefield. NSWCPC has successfully moved the Kings Bay sea lions and dolphins for three separate recent-year hurricanes. “We personally understand the trials and tribulations that come with the devastation of a hurricane,” said Nicole Waters of NSWCPC, especially after Hurricane Michael devastated the region last October. (Source: NSWCPC 09/09/19) https://www.navsea.navy.mil/Media/News/Article/1955103/navy-marine-mammals-shelter-in-panama-city-during-hurricane-dorian/