The Aegis 9 were arrested at 10:00 am this morning in a snow storm at Bath Iron Works (BIW) in Maine during a ‘christening’ of another destroyer outfitted with so-called ‘missile defense’ systems.
The group blocked the ceremony entry gate and were charged with Trespass on BIW property – which ironically is ultimately paid for by taxpayer dollars. BIW is owned by General Dynamics.
These warships are currently being deployed by the Pentagon to help encircle Russia and China as the US moves to put in place global first-strike attack capability.
Amazingly BIW decided to still hold the event out-of-doors even though there was a wet driving snow coming down. Reports from the inside of the shipyard were that many of the chairs at the ceremony were empty – except for the snow on them.
The protest called for the conversion of BIW to build commuter rail systems, solar, wind turbines and tidal power systems. This kind of sustainable technology development would employ many times more people than building warships does. See the studies that reveal these facts here
Following processing all were released after paying $60 bail and have to appear in West Bath District Court on May 16 at 1:00 pm for arraignment.
The ‘Aegis 9’
1. Lisa Savage – Solon, 60 years, School teacher
2. Jason Rawn – Lincolnville, 45, War tax resister
3. Bruce Gagnon – Bath, 64, VFP (Veterans For Peace & Global Network)
4. Natasha Mayers – Whitefield, 70, Artist
5. Bob Dale – Brunswick, 92, VFP former Navy pilot
6. Mike Tork – Cape Cod, MA, 69, VFP former Navy Vietnam vet
7. Mark Roman – Solon, 69, Woodworker
8. Russell Wray – Hancock, 61, Artist
9. Jessica Stewart – Bass Harbor, 37, Catholic Worker activist
About 35 activists from around Maine braved the harsh weather this morning to come to the protest. Thanks to all those who came – and to those who wanted to but couldn’t make it. We hope to see you next time.
