Solar panels can work on runway

POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Apr 24, 2012

~~<p>Ford Island has been recognized as an important site in American history after the Japanese attacked it and Battleship Row on Dec. 7, 1941. That should not mean that its airstrip must be retained in its present decrepit condition. In a delicate balance toward a "green" energy future while respecting the past, the Navy should move ahead in its vision to cover the weedy runway with photovoltaic panels in a way that recognizes its part in history.</p>
<p>The 450-acre island is maintained by the Navy as the centerpiece of the Pearl Harbor National Landmark District, bearing remnants of bomb craters and two World War II hangars with windows pocked by bullet holes. The nonprofit Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor conducts tours of the island, which remains an active military base. The museum does valuable work in bringing history alive, and in educating young and old alike on military aviation and the pivotal roles played in WWII's Pacific theater.</p>
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Ford Island has been recognized as an important site in American history after the Japanese attacked it and Battleship Row on Dec. 7, 1941. That should not mean that its airstrip must be retained in its present decrepit condition. In a delicate balance toward a "green" energy future while respecting the past, the Navy should move ahead in its vision to cover the weedy runway with photovoltaic panels in a way that recognizes its part in history.

The 450-acre island is maintained by the Navy as the centerpiece of the Pearl Harbor National Landmark District, bearing remnants of bomb craters and two World War II hangars with windows pocked by bullet holes. The nonprofit Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor conducts tours of the island, which remains an active military base. The museum does valuable work in bringing history alive, and in educating young and old alike on military aviation and the pivotal roles played in WWII's Pacific theater. Login for more...