Kash Patel’s ‘horrifying’ VIP snorkel next to sacred US military site
FBI Director Kash Patel participated in a VIP snorkeling trip near the USS Arizona memorial in Pearl Harbor, a site considered a war grave, drawing criticism for disrespecting the sanctity of the location. The excursion, escorted by US Navy SEALs, included nine other individuals and was described as a 'VIP Snorkel' in a Defense Department email. Patel's actions have intensified scrutiny over his blending of leisure activities with official government duties.
- ▪FBI Director Kash Patel went snorkeling near the USS Arizona memorial, an underwater tomb holding remains of over 900 sailors and marines killed at Pearl Harbor.
- ▪US Navy SEALs used two boats to transport and escort Patel and nine others during the 30-minute swim, according to the navy.
- ▪Snorkeling near the Arizona is highly restricted out of respect for the war grave, with only military and National Park Service divers typically permitted in the area.
- ▪A former Navy officer and professor called the event 'horrifying' and compared it to playing games on graves at Arlington National Cemetery.
- ▪The trip was part of a broader pattern of scrutiny over Patel’s mixing of government business with personal leisure and high-profile outings.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Sydney Morning Herald.