North Carolina’s coast will soon sound like a war zone as Marines are now preparing to launch widescale live-ammunition explosive training exercises.
Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point is warning NC coastal communities about military activity through the remainder of September.
The most intensive amphibious training is scheduled for Sept. 16-17 around Cherry Point waterways and Pamlico Sound. Marines will move into and out of Bombing Target 11 at Piney Island, and exercises will include live ammunition.
Piney Island, known as BT-11, is a remote military bombing range in Pamlico Sound. The marshy site covers roughly 10,000 acres and contains old vehicles and military aircraft used as targets.
Military activity will continue during the week of Sept. 21, according to the Marine Corps advisory. Crews will conduct underwater environmental investigations and munitions-response work near Bombing Target 2 at Cat Island.
Those operations could include underwater and land-based detonations. Explosive Ordnance Disposal Marines will also conduct separate explosives training at MCAS Cherry Point.
As a result, nearby communities could hear occasional loud explosions from the base and surrounding training areas. The activity does not necessarily indicate an emergency.
The Marine Corps is asking residents, boaters and visitors to remain clear of operational areas. People should also follow all posted warnings and safety instructions throughout the exercises.
