“Residents of Utrok Atoll have been devastated by U.S. nuclear testing. Conveyance of this ship will provide support of radiological monitoring, rehabilitation and resettlement of Utrok Atoll and its residents,” the Congressman said.  “The U.S. government owes a responsibility to the residents of Utrok Atoll as a result of the destructive aftermath of nuclear experiments conducted in the Republic of the Marshall Islands.”

         “The U.S. government has built a radiological facility on one of the main islands.  However, at present, the residents of Utrok Atoll have limited access to this facility due to a lack of travel means,” the Congressman explained.  “Having this NOAA vessel would facilitate access of these residents to the radiological facility for testing.”

         “This ship will provide much needed services to the people of Utrok Atoll, services which are long overdue and I am pleased that I have been able to assist the Republic of the Marshall Islands in this matter,” the Congressman concluded.