Intro
Uncover the forgotten history of West Loch Pearl Harbor, a lesser-known chapter in the infamous 1941 attack. Explore the tragic events that unfolded on the west loch, its significance in World War II, and the enduring legacy of the USS Rigel and other ships involved. Discover the hidden stories behind this pivotal moment in American history.
The attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, is one of the most infamous events in American history, leading to the United States' entry into World War II. However, there is another, lesser-known incident that occurred at Pearl Harbor, which has been shrouded in mystery and controversy for decades. This is the story of the West Loch Pearl Harbor disaster, a tragedy that claimed the lives of 163 sailors and civilians, and left many more injured.
The West Loch Disaster
On May 21, 1944, a series of explosions and fires rocked the West Loch area of Pearl Harbor, which was being used as a staging area for the invasion of Saipan. The disaster occurred when a Landing Ship, Tank (LST) was loading ammunition and fuel, and a spark ignited a fire that quickly spread to other nearby ships. The resulting explosions and fires destroyed or damaged several ships, including six LSTs, and caused widespread destruction to the surrounding area.
Cause of the Disaster
The exact cause of the West Loch disaster has been the subject of much debate and speculation over the years. The official investigation into the incident concluded that the fire was caused by a spark from a welding torch, which ignited a mixture of gasoline and oil on one of the LSTs. However, many of the survivors and witnesses have disputed this finding, claiming that the fire was actually caused by an explosion on one of the other ships.
Cover-Up and Controversy
The West Loch disaster was quickly overshadowed by the news of the Allied invasion of Normandy, which occurred just a few days later. However, the incident was not without controversy. Many of the survivors and families of the victims felt that the incident was covered up by the military, and that the true cause of the disaster was not fully investigated.
Legacy of the West Loch Disaster
Despite the controversy surrounding the incident, the West Loch disaster has had a lasting impact on the U.S. military. The incident led to changes in the way that the military handles and stores ammunition and fuel, and it also led to the development of new safety procedures for handling hazardous materials.
Remembering the West Loch Disaster
Today, the West Loch disaster is largely forgotten, except by the families of the victims and the survivors who lived through the tragedy. However, it is an important part of American history, and a reminder of the sacrifices that were made during World War II.
A Call to Action
We must remember the West Loch disaster and the sacrifices that were made during World War II. We must also learn from the past and work to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
West Loch Pearl Harbor Image Gallery
What was the West Loch disaster?
+The West Loch disaster was a series of explosions and fires that occurred at Pearl Harbor on May 21, 1944, resulting in the deaths of 163 sailors and civilians, and injuring many more.
What caused the West Loch disaster?
+The exact cause of the West Loch disaster is still disputed, but the official investigation concluded that a spark from a welding torch ignited a mixture of gasoline and oil on one of the LSTs.
Why was the West Loch disaster covered up?
+Many of the survivors and families of the victims felt that the incident was covered up by the military, and that the true cause of the disaster was not fully investigated.