Mayor J. Yamashita
Office of the Mayor
2235 Kobago, Saikai-cho
Nishisonogi-gun 851-3592
Dear Mayor Yamashita,
I hope this letter finds you in excellent health and spirit.
I would like to take this opportunity to first tell you how honored I was to meet you and enjoy our discussions of matter which are very important to the U.S. Navy and to the citizens of Saikal Town on November 21, 2000. Let me also extend my deep appreciation for you taking time out from your very busy schedule to share your thoughts and to help facilitate the continued progress in our mutually beneficial goal. Your continued support to the success of the Yokose LCAC Facilities is most critical and appreciated .
As was discussed during the November meeting, I feel we made much progress in solidifying our mutual understanding of the major elements involved in this future endeavor. In particular, the following parameters as they relate to normal LCAC operations were reviewed and a common view was discussed in principal. DMA Chart 97397 (specially annotated)applies:
- Operate more than 500 yards (457.2meters) from land (marked by solid black line)
- Transit Sasebo Harbor using the existing shipping lanes (marked by a dashed line and annotated "Shipping Lane")
- Operate at speeds less than 20 knots within Sasebo Harbor.
- USG, GOJ and Saikai Town representatives will hold discussions as necessary regarding the completed Yokose LCAC Facility.
- LCAC's will normally operate in the open ocean areas west of the entrance to Sasebo Harbor, and remain more than 1000 yards (914.4 meters) from land (marked by a solid black line) except in the cases of operational necessity, safety, or emergencies.
You recall in our discussion the important clarification regarding the important difference between referring to "LCAC operations" in general, versus referring to "operating LCAC's for required testing and maintenance during specified periods."
In closing, I once again want to extend my gratitude for your personal friendship and cooperation as well as that of the Fukuoka Defense Facilities Administration Bureau in ensuring the future success of this project.
I hope the coming New Year is a healthy and prosperous one for you, your family, and your administration.
Sincerely
R. C. HILL Ill
Captain, U.S. Navy
Commander, Fleet Activities, Sasebo