Jack W Miller sent this email about his duty during Operation Dominic.
From: "IRA Miller" obira@hotmail.com
To: pdxavets@aracnet.com
Subject: Atomic veteran/Dominic I
Date: Mon, 13 Dec 1999
I was a EM2 aboard the USS O'Bannon (DDE-450) during the Dominic I
tests at Johnston Is. I only witnessed one explosion in early July 1962.
We were in the area three times between Apr 26 and July 10, with a final
return to Pearl on July 11th.
O'Bannon anchored in Johnston Lagoon on Apr 27 and May 24/25. It was
amazing how clear the water was. You could see coins and other objects
laying on the sea floor 30 to 40 feet down. Many bright colored fish were
caught, but I don't believe any were eaten.
We were to patrol a certain area to keep any fishing boats/shipping out
of the area. We had all been issued dosimeters, and all cameras were
confiscated. Several times during our patrols, we went trolling for shark
with a home made hook, a large piece of meat(from the cooks), and the BT
winch. I do not think the Captain would have approved of this last item.
Several shots were duds and the one that I witnessed in early July was
absolutely awesome. I was on deck with a welders helmet on and facing away
from the explosion. Once it went off I turned around and saw this huge ball
of fire in the sky. It was about 11pm and it was so bright that you could
read a newspaper. The sky was constantly changing various hues of colors.
Very stunning! Upon arrival in Pearl we found the papers filled with photos
of the blast which was upsetting as our cameras had been taken from us.
My brother was aboard a Destroyer for some of the shots in the late
1950's and he has some kind of cancer which is destroying him.
Jack W Miller
USN (Ret)
obira@hotmail.com
Email obira@hotmail.com
Keith Whittle
December 13, 1999
[ Operation Dominic 1 ]