Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial

I was nine years old and we lived in Berkeley. My brother and I were supposed to be asleep but we were talking when there was this tremendous boom and we had no idea what was happening. I also remember sitting in the dark during the air raids and the First Aid Stations in people’s garages stocked with stretchers, bandages and medical supplies.

I went to the annual ceremony in remembrance is the Port Chicago disaster. It was a very somber, yet meaningful ceremony that educated on the background of the disaster. The memorial site is very pretty and well- maintained with pieces of the hull of one of the shops from the disaster. I look forward to visiting again when the visitor center is completed.

Tours are ny reservation only. This is one of the most interesting tours, but one of the least visited national parks in the USA. Well worth the visit. Must reserve 14 days in advance.