The echoes of World War II continue to reverberate through the landscape of Jamaica, leaving behind a fascinating chapter in its history. Amid the turmoil of that conflict, two strategic locations, Little Goat Island and Vernamfield in Clarendon, played a pivotal role as US Air Station Bases. The agreement that paved the way for this arrangement was a 99-year lease, signed on September 2, 1940, between the United States and the then-UK Colonial Office.
This lease, known as the Destroyers for Bases Agreement, was not exclusive to Jamaica. It extended to other territories in the Caribbean, including those that later became part of the West Indies Federation. However, the Federation itself was short-lived, dissolving before the end of the war.
With the conclusion of World War II, the need for these US bases diminished. Consequently, the United States abandoned them. Yet, a lingering question persists: Is the original lease agreement still in effect? While the 99-year lease was initially intended to expire on September 2, 2039, the dissolution of the West Indies Federation complicates the matter.
The agreement was not specifically tied to the Federation, but rather to the territories it encompassed. As a result, it is unclear whether the lease continued to apply to Jamaica after the Federation’s collapse. GOAT ISLANDS WILDLIFE SANCTUARY The story of Little Goat Island takes an interesting turn beyond its role in World War II.
According to a recent article on the website “UDCJA” (Update Daily CJ Archive), Little Goat Island is now part of the Goat Islands Wildlife Sanctuary. The Goat Islands Wildlife Sanctuary protects endangered species and provides opportunities for local communities. The project also plays a vital role in combating climate change by safeguarding the area’s vital mangroves.
The transformation of Little Goat Island from a wartime base to a wildlife sanctuary exemplifies Jamaica’s ability to adapt and evolve. It highlights the island nation’s dedication to preserving its natural heritage for future generations. The history of the US air bases in Jamaica serves as a reminder of the island nation’s strategic significance and its involvement in global events.
It is a testament to the resilience of the Jamaican people and their ability to adapt to changing circumstances. As Jamaica continues to chart its course into the future, the legacy of these bases offers valuable insights into its past and potential pathways forward. Whether the US-Jamaica lease agreement remains in effect is a question that awaits further investigation.
The historical context surrounding this agreement is rich and multifaceted. It reflects the geopolitical landscape of the time, the strategic importance of the Caribbean, and the complex relationship between the United States and the British Empire. Reference: https://udcja.
com/goat-islands/ Contributed by Dr Lorenzo Gordon, a diabetologist, internal medicine consultant, biochemist, and a history and heritage enthusiast. Send feedback to [email protected] .
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