Port Chicago National Memorial Bill Approved by House
Monday, March 10th, 2008Congressman George Miller’s legislation to improve management of the Port Chicago National Memorial in Concord, Calif., won approval by the House of Representatives on March 4, moving forward the effort to document and preserve the important events of the WWII historic site.
The Port Chicago National Memorial commemorates the worst home-front disaster of World War II. More than 300 sailors, most of whom were African American, died in a mysterious explosion while loading munitions on to ships bound for the Pacific front. A group of 50 African American sailors who refused to continue loading munitions after the explosion out of fear for their lives were later court-martialed.
“The massive explosion at Port Chicago more than 60 years ago and the events triggered by it helped lead to the desegregation of the U.S. Navy and represented a critical part of America’s civil rights movement,” said Rep. Miller, who represents the area of Port Chicago and has spearheaded congressional efforts for more than 15 years to ensure that the site is properly protected and recognized.
“While Congress already has ensured a memorial at Port Chicago, my new bill would provide further assurances to the sailors and their families that their stories will be preserved and that the site will be properly maintained for the benefit of present and future generations The new designation under this bill brings with it increased stature and, more importantly, the Park Service will be able to budget for the memorial’s needs.”