Obama visits Midway Atoll, a symbol for his climate, Asia legacy

U.S. President Barack Obama smiles as he looks out at Turtle Beach on a visit to Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument, Midway Atoll, U.S., September 1, 2016. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst

MIDWAY ATOLL (Reuters) - President Barack Obama snorkelled on Thursday in the electric-blue water off Midway Atoll, a remote coral reef that serves as a reminder of both modern global climate challenges and the United State's dominance in the Pacific since its World War Two victory there.

The journey was aimed at sending a message about the need to protect vulnerable species and spaces from the ravages of climate change.