The US Navy has formally exonerated 256 Black sailors who were convicted of mutiny and disobeying orders following the catastrophic explosion at Port Chicago, California, nearly 80 years ago.
The explosion, which occurred during World War II, claimed 320 lives, injured 390 others, and caused extensive damage across the San Francisco Bay Area.
The exoneration comes after a thorough review by the US Navy General Counsel, who concluded that the courts-martial proceedings were marred by significant legal errors.
These errors deprived the defendants of their right to counsel and a fair trial, compounded by racial discrimination.
President Joe Biden commented on the decision, stating:
“Today’s announcement marks the end of a long and unjust journey for these Black Sailors and their families, who served their nation despite facing systemic injustices. We honor their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to our country.”
The Port Chicago naval base, crucial for munitions loading during the war, experienced the deadly explosion on July 17, 1944.
The incident, attributed to unsafe handling practices, disproportionately affected Black sailors, who were ordered back to work without adequate safety measures while their white counterparts were granted leave.
The mutiny convictions stemmed from 258 Black sailors refusing to resume hazardous duties without assurances of safety or an investigation into the explosion’s cause. While some initially faced severe penalties, subsequent reviews by the Navy saw most sentences reduced, with two sailors having their convictions entirely overturned.
This exoneration by the US Navy signifies a recognition of historical injustices and aims to rectify past wrongs against these servicemen who bravely served their country amid adversity.
