Camp Lejeune Range Patrol Warn Public to Stay Away from Browns Island

Camp Lejeune, North Carolina As summer approaches, base officials at Camp Lejeune are warning the public of the dangers at Browns Island. "Browns Island is a target area that Camp LeJeune Marines and other services have been shooting at or dropping bombs on since 1942," said Camp Lejeune Range Patrol Officer Nick Klaus.

"What may look like a rusty piece of metal in the sand, could actually be an explosive device," Klaus said. "Not less than a week ago, we found a 500-pound bomb that was on the shore exposed by the tide."

Periodically throughout the year, the base conducts sweeps for UXO. Nearly every search results in a find requiring disposal.

"When you have a big high tidal surge associated with a hurricane or a large tropical storm, that will wash out the beach, but also expose unexploded bombs that have been dropped there over the years," added Klaus.

People are encouraged to avoid beaching on Browns Island or disturbing the bottom of the water nearby. "These munitions could have moved from the island into the water, or they may have been in the water initially. And again, if it gets disturbed by your anchor or whatever, it doesn't matter if it's underwater or not. It can still explode," said Klaus.

There is a $5,000 fine for trespassing on the island and the offense could result in up to 6 months in jail.