Station HYPO

Memorial Services

By mid-September “fall is in the air” and the annual National Fire Prevention Week occurs in early October. For the men and women at Kamiseya “fire” is a word taken extremely seriously.

The first memorial service was held on Monday, 27 September 1965 – 3 days after the fire. The small base chapel was too small to hold everyone, so the service was held in the station theater.

TORII MEMORIAL GATE – UPDATED

By Jay R. Browne

Featured image: 1981 photograph showing the memorial plaque hanging in the original wooden torii. The location has became known as the “Torii Memorial Area” and is adjacent to the “tunnel” (seen as the back drop) and the tunnel entrance. Note the bike shed to the right.

Michael Faraday (1791–1867) is remembered as one of the most influential scientists in history, particularly in the fields of electromagnetism and electrochemistry. His discoveries not only laid the foundation for modern electrical engineering and physics, but they also demonstrated the power of scientific curiosity driven by observation and experimentation rather than formal education. Faraday’s life and work continue to inspire scientists and engineers more than 150 years after his death.

Court of Inquiry

There was of course an official investigation. The board convened on 18 October and sat until 24 November. During that time 47 witnesses were called, 77 exhibits were entered into evidence, a total of 68 base and non-base personnel were involved directly and in support rolls with the inquiry. There were 55 recommendations. The Court produced 1661 numbered pages of questions and testimony, plus additional pages of facts, exhibits, endorsements and forwarding letters: the stack of paper is over 9.5″ thick! Captain Jack A. Obermeyer, USN, presided over the investigation.

From the Shore Fire Management Report on the fire:

24 September 1965 – Security Communications Facility, 11 enlisted men, 1 officer died – $1,307,800 property loss. At 0235, smoke was noted in operations area by watchstander. A search for the source of the fire revealed fire in combustible undivided 1st floor concealed space. Smoke quickly spread as Fire Department was called and occupants attempted to fight the fire. Two 500-gpm pumpers responded manned by military and Japanese Nationals. Realizing the seriousness of the fire outside aid was called.