Station HYPO

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.

Five Marines, William Kiser, Paul Kugler, William Thomson, Ogden Wilson, and Winnett Robinson were trained in Kata Kana at the Navy Intercept Station in Shanghai in 1927.  On September 20, 1927, these five new intercept operators departed Shanghai en route to Peiping.  In October of 1927, CRM Dorman Chauncey arrived in Peiping.  Under the leadership of CRM Chauncey, the station was established. 

Man has always felt that he was in control. He has felt confident that he can control the elements and has conquered nature. Yet time after time nature has proven him wrong. It is said that “Eternal vigilance is the price of Freedom”. It can also be said that Eternal vigilance is the price of safety – be it in your homes, on the roads, or in the workplace.

September 19^, 1983 – January 17, 2012