Retired Navy Admiral: Mayport could get involved if conflict escalates

WOKV’s military affairs expert says he doesn’t see Mayport forces getting involved in Syria, unless the U.S. commitment towards action goes on longer than expected.

“You never know what the second and third steps might entail,” says Retired Admiral Bob Natter, who served as Commander of the U.S. Atlantic Fleet and Fleet Forces Command from 2000 to 2003.

Natter says if the military has to fire more strike missiles then some Mayport ships could be involved.  He also says local patrol squadrons could be involved if the situation escalates.

“My take is I would support some action, even though I have some misgivings as a military person that it could escalate into a longer term commitment,” he says.

“We’re very ill-equipped today both financially as a nation and also with the people’s will to continue this kind of involvement overseas.”

If there’s a military strike, Natter says he hopes it’s a “very determined” one.

“Send the signal and alter behavior.  If it’s not successful in altering behavior, then we’ve gotta make another decision.”