On July 17, 1944, a massive explosion jolted the San Francisco East Bay area, shattering windows and lighting up the night sky. At Port Chicago Naval Magazine, 320 men were killed instantly when two ships loading ammunition for Pacific troops exploded, resulting in the worst home front disaster of WWII. The aftermath illuminated the issues of segregation and racial inequality in the military.
Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
Park sign at the memorial.
Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
Historic train car at the memorial site.
Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
Munitions at the memorial.
Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
American flag at the memorial.
