I completed Radar School and joined the SLC in San Pedro, CA. (2/46). Lead PO was R. C. Blomquist, Rdm1c. I hung out with shipmate named Joseph M. DeVille, MM1c.

The most memorable SLC moment was 'Baker Test', "Operations Crossroads". In my lifetime I have had other great memories/moments, but nothing comes close to seeing that massive column of water; especially, when it began to cascade back to the surface of the sea. The ring of water (turned out to be steam) began moving out from the test site area towards us (USS Rockbridge APA228). I thought somebody really screwed-up, we were going to get lunched by a huge tidal wave! I remember being afraid, especially when a Tin Can (or DE) that was a mile or two closer-in, turned and ran at probably flank speed.

I also have memories of the 'strange pattern' of destruction from 'Test Able'. Parts of the ship had massive damage, while other nearby sections seemed untouched. After the tests I volunteered for duty in the Ammunition Disposal Unit (ADU Kwajalien). There, I further witnessed the strange power of the A-Bomb.

I'm sure fellow SLC crew mates will remember the night (6/1) that the stern mooring line parted and we swung aimlessly on our bow mooring chain; we almost exchanged paint jobs with the Independence and the Nagato.

Finally, the beer party on the beach. The weather was slightly warmer than the beer (not Henikens). Most climbed the ladder back aboard; but, a few used the 'hemp elevator' (i.e., the cargo net).

On August 19, 1946, most of the SLC crew were heading for the States, a few were on their way to duty in the Far East. A few days later, I watched the Salt Lake City, now under tow to Kwajalien. I too, was on my way to Kwajalien and my new duty station: "Ammunition Disposal Unit, ADU Team #2".

Regards, John Sebastian, S1cRdm

Operation Crossroads Veterans