I'm honestly sick to my stomach after reading this article... can it be true that Belize is allowing a US military base here? I am very opposed to this happening, after seeing how it has played out in many other countries.... how can we stop it?
Not one but four at last count though they aren't really "bases" as the term is commonly understood. Camp out in front of the US Embassy with appropriate signage. I'm sure you'll get some attention.
US moved forces from Afghanistan to Honduras and opened 4 bases there. Not sure where they would build in Belize, but assume they would use Price Barracks, close to Intl and on the Belize River for boat access to the sea for drug smuggling. We always did well with the British troops and assume we will do as well with US troops. And you people on the caye would get helicopter service for emergencies and the rest of the country would benefit as well. This is good, not bad
US Military have been here for at least 2 years that I know of. I've talked with them. They are around in civilian clothes and are used to train the BDF.
It would be good for Belize if they built a base for all the reasons Katie stated.
PM says talk of an American military base in Belize is not true
BFBS photo
An American anti-war group is reporting on its online blog that the United States military is building bases in Central America, including Belize. Railing against what the group calls the US's continued militarization reach into Latin America, the group is claiming that the Obama administration is spending enormous amounts of cash, much of it on the war against narco traffickers in Latin America. But while the nations with a common coast along the Caribbean Sea which is seen as a transshipment route for North America-bound narcotics, Prime Minister Dean Barrow says he knows of no impending US military base being set up in Belize.
If there is any truth to this rumor and I certainly have my doubts, it will be public knowledge eventually because a lease will be negotiated and word will get to the American newspapers if not the Belizean news. Likely a PR campaign would precede any announcement.
There would certainly be advantages to us civilians living here, both locals and foreigners but don't hold your breath. I'm sure the US will continue small groups training troops throughout Central America but I don't see the big need for a base unless you are more talking of a compound to house a few troops. I think of a base as a large group, heavy equipment and having air support at a minimum. Doubt that will happen.
I think the rumor mill is alive and well. I also think it was a sorry day when the Brits left; they were a plus in this country.
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