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National Memorial
Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial · California
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. Families can start at the visitor center for maps, exhibits, and Junior Ranger materials; always check nps.gov for current hours and conditions before you go.
Hours, roads, and programs change with the seasons. Check current conditions on the official Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial website before you go.
Wild Base Family is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the National Park Service. Park brochures and Junior Ranger books are free official materials published by the National Park Service; our links open the official PDF (on nps.gov) when one is available online.