EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE – Eglin Air Force Base officials are advising the public of a planned demolition in Choctawhatchee Bay later this week.
According to a news release, divers from the Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit Six, a Panama City-based detachment, will clear six 500-pound World War II bombs in a controlled underwater demolition found during a routine search of the Bay Legacy Range on 24 and 25 October.
For their safety, people, ships and all water activities must stay away from the controlled demolition every day from 7 a.m. to 12 noon. The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Coast Guard Destin will be present during the removal to ensure proper safety protocols are maintained.
The unexploded ordinance was found south of Black Point, near Shalimar Pointe Golf Club. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, any vessel attempting to transit the security zone should contact the on-site patrol commander, who can be reached via VHF channel 83 or 16.
Those who fail to comply with safety zone requirements may face a civil fine of up to $111,031, imprisonment, or both.
For more information, contact the Eglin Public Affairs office at 850-882-3931.
This article originally appeared on Northwest Florida Daily News: World War II bombs are detonated in Choctawhatchee Bay
