I'm far from an expert on masonry but can hold my own concerning tile and veneers; in addition to a "cap" or appropriate flashings, won't something like the spray on crystaline WP stuff (can't remember product name) on the outside of the CMU's help prevent moisture from getting in there?

They look pretty damp from the photos.

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Terry Allison
N. Calif. & Boca Chica, Panama

09' E320 Bluetec 77k (USA)
09' Hyundai Santa Fe Diesel 48k (S.A.)