The defense secretary discusses his role in designating the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary on a Monterey County community media organization
AMP2, the region’s only Curated Community Television Channel, will air an exclusive interview this Thursday evening with Monterey County Hero and current U.S. Secretary of Defense, Leon Panetta. While serving in Congress, Secretary Panetta played a major role in creating the largest National Marine Sanctuary in existence. ”Growing up as a kid in Monterey gave me a deep appreciation for how important our oceans are” remarked the Secretary. “We have amazing parks such as Yosemite and Yellowstone. We should also protect our oceans in a way that preserves them for generations to come.” Panetta has also served his country as CIA Director, Chief of Staff for President Clinton along with his term as Congressional Representative for the then 16th District. Secretary Panetta’s interview with Sanctuary Superintendent Paul Michel is a special program of the “Your Sanctuary” series produced by AMP2. “Your Sanctuary” is a collaborative project involving MBNMS, the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries, research and academic institutions and various organizations dedicated to ocean protection and preservation. “This is one of the most exciting programs we’ve produced thus far”, said AMP’s Executive Director, Paul Congo. “Secretary Panetta is thoughtful, articulate and exudes a comfortable home town charm”, noted Executive Producer, Stephen Ellzey.