The Board of Water Supply says its water is clean and safe, but it’s traveling through Navy pipes, and residents in Manana Housing are reporting problems. 

The Navy said it has complied with a state Department of Health order to stop flushing efforts that began shortly after petroleum was detected in a well.

The Navy says it has asked for more money to help all the residents affected by the fuel contamination found in a well.

Hawaii should use the Navy’s Red Hill water crisis as an opportunity to reform military and civilian government and to think of ways to prevent such problems from recurring.

Built in haste during World War II, the facility has a history of leaking despite the Navy’s assurances that it is secure.

The Board of Water Supply’s Halawa shaft isn’t contaminated but could be closed for years, if not permanently.

In response, Sen. Brian Schatz said the EPA should take over testing and monitoring.

The military has enjoyed unwavering support from state and federal political leaders in Hawaii. But the threat to Oahu’s water supply may be bringing that to an end.

Meanwhile, the Navy outlined actions it would take in response to an emergency order by Gov. David Ige, but remained silent on the question of emptying the tanks.

Everything changed when Ernie Lau, chief engineer at the Honolulu Board of Water Supply, got emotional.