Honoring the Heroes of May 21, 1944
The West Loch Disaster remains one of the least-known yet most tragic military accidents in United States history. On May 21, 1944, Army personnel were loading ammunition, fuel, explosives, and combat equipment aboard Landing Ship, Tank (LST) vessels at the West Loch staging area of Pearl Harbor in preparation for Operation Forager, the invasion of the Mariana Islands.
During loading operations, an explosion aboard LST-353 triggered a catastrophic chain reaction that spread rapidly to nearby landing craft. Over the next 24 hours, massive explosions and fires engulfed the harbor, destroying six vessels and damaging numerous others.
The disaster claimed the lives of 163 Sailors, Soldiers, and Marines, injured 396 military personnel, and destroyed vital equipment intended for the Pacific campaign. Despite the devastating losses, military personnel worked tirelessly to contain the fires and recover the wounded. The invasion force departed just one day later, ensuring that Operation Forager continued as planned.
For many years, details surrounding the West Loch Disaster remained largely unknown because the incident was classified during World War II. Today, it stands as an important reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made not only in combat, but also by those preparing for combat in support of Allied victory.
AMVETS Hawaii’s Commitment to Remembrance
AMVETS Hawaii is honored to support the Naval Medical Center Pacific (NMCPAC) Expeditionary Aid Detachment (EAD) Unit Pearl Harbor during the annual West Loch Disaster Memorial Ceremony, paying tribute to the 163 men who made the ultimate sacrifice on May 21, 1944.
As part of this annual observance, AMVETS Hawaii conducts a ceremonial wreath laying to honor the memory of the Sailors, Marines, and Soldiers who perished during the disaster. This solemn tradition reflects our unwavering commitment to remembering those whose service and sacrifice contributed to the success of the Allied war effort and to preserving their legacy for future generations.
Annual Memorial Ceremony
The annual memorial ceremony is hosted by the Obama Hawaiian African American Museum (OHAAM) at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific. The ceremony brings together veterans, active-duty military personnel, military families, civic leaders, community organizations, and the public to reflect upon the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of those who lost their lives during the West Loch Disaster.
Through remembrance, education, and community participation, the ceremony ensures that the stories of these American heroes continue to inspire future generations.
Our Promise
At AMVETS Hawaii, we believe that every generation has a responsibility to preserve our nation’s military history and honor those who served before us. By participating in the annual West Loch Disaster Memorial Ceremony, we reaffirm our commitment to remembering the fallen, supporting our military community, and ensuring that the legacy of the men lost on May 21, 1944, is never forgotten.
“We Remember. We Honor. We Are Forever Grateful.”