We have learned from a posting by Erik Hickly, Chief of Staff Lion Claws, that they have suspended Operation Trade Winds for the time being as they have to sort out the venue given issues at booking Fort Worden with finality, and originally scheduled for the September 27 to 29, 2013. Those who have already paid will be refunded. The problem here is fixing the date according to Erik in his post at the Lion Claws forum.

However, the real story might not be what you think as Merlin posted at his Blog that there might be some external forces that forced the suspension of the event and here is what he says about the issue:

"John Lu, most either love’em or hate’em. The Pacific Northwest might not be a fan however. While 2012 Operation TradeWinds provide to be a successful entry into the PNW for the Operation Lion Claws Military Simulation Series president, it might have provide to be harder then he thought.

Operation Tradewinds II’s AO was set to be held at Fort Worden, a Washington State Park and local landmark. Fort Worden was tasked in guarding the entrance into Pudget Sound during the late 1800s and through the mid 1900s. Closed in 1953, it was purchased and reopened in 1955 as a State Park. The park is named after Rear Admiral John L. Worden.

Things with the AO and the event seemed to moving along as planned, but things changed almost over night for the staff of OLCMSS..."

Read the full story at Merlin Blogspot.