Twenty-three of Gitmo’s 71 square miles are water and populated by crustacea, coral and thousands of species of tropical fish. To protect this fragile ecosystem, Navy patrols spend countless hours watching over all activity on and in the water

“I drive a boat all over the bay, enforcing laws that protect and preserve marine life,” said Edwards. “Whether it’s making sure a fisherman is within his limits, or cleaning a beach of debris, I get a huge sense of gratification out of what I am doing here. Everyone I run into seems to appreciate and respect the laws governing the wildlife and the environment.”

Conservation and respect for ecology are a huge part of military life on Gitmo. Residents feel the close interaction between Sailors and nature yields a sustainable and rewarding relationship for both. The preservation of natural resources offers Sailors stationed here outdoor recreation unlike any other naval base in the world. With Guantanamo’s tropical surroundings, water sports are the main form of recreation for Sailors. The reefs in and
around the bay are known to be some of the best waters for diving in the world.

“I’ve been scuba diving all over and I must say, the diving here is unbeatable,” said Master-at-Arms 2nd Class Shance McGuffey, harbor patrol. “It’s like having your own personal reef in your back yard.”

“No matter where you go, the reefs are untouched and free of human debris. Tropical fish are simply everywhere,” he
added. “It’s gratifying to know that my job during the day plays a direct part in my ability to enjoy the water when I leave work.”

The future preservation of Gitmo looks promising. To reduce impact on all life residing within the confines of the base, a first-of-its-kind energy producer has been implemented on the base – four large windmills. Not only are the large propellers energy efficient, providing 30 percent of all energy on the base, but there are no waste emissions to contaminate the air or sea.