Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial - Danville, California

Address:Danville, California
Tel: (925) 838-0249

A significant piece of WWII history, Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial commemorates 320 men who were tragically killed by the deadly explosion of munitions ships. The ships blew up while they were being loaded with ammunition for the Pacific theatre troops. As a result of the explosion, everyone within 1,000 feet of the loading dock perished, including sailors, Marines, Navy Armed Guard, Coast Guardsmen, Merchant Marines, and working civilians. Over 200 of the deaths were of young African-American men who were enlisted sailors working for the segregated military. This tragic event led to the largest Naval mutiny trial and resulted in the desegregation of the U.S. Armed Services following the war.

The Port Chicago Naval Magazine Memorial recognizes the critical role that the deceased and the survivors of the explosion played in winning the war in the Pacific. The site was dedicated in 1994 by the survivors and their families, Naval personnel, and National Park Service. The memorial, only open to the public through reserved guided tours, is a moving, learning experience for all. Tip: Bring your windbreaker—it gets windy along the Carquinez Straits!

To get to the Port Chicago Naval Magazine from San Francisco, Berkeley, and Oakland, take Interstate 80 (Bay Bridge) to Hwy 4 East. Exit at Port Chicago Hwy North. At the first stop sign, make a right, and the first building you see will be the Concord Naval Weapons Station Identity Office. There are shuttles from this office to the Memorial. There's no better way to pay homage to the men who lost their lives in helping to serve and protect our country then to visit the places that memorialize them—enjoy your educational day on the docks!