RJ Ritter sent this email about his duty at Operation Wigwam.
From: "RJ Ritter" rjritter@ghg.net
To: "Keith" pdxavets@aracnet.com
Subject: Re: Operation Wigwam
Date: Thu, 19 Oct 2000
HI Keith:
I was in the "Wigwam" operation. My vessel ( USS Tawasa - ATF92 ) was
the ship that towed the entire array, including the 40 kiloton device when it
was detonated. I was assigned the duty as an observer that day, and was on
the fantail with several of my shipmates and some scientist types from
shore.
When the light bubble broached the surface, it was a spectacular
display of pure uncontrolled hell. We had only one minute to get into the
ship through the only open hatch on the main deck. The initial shock
wave damaged several hydraulic and water lines, as well as our main shaft
bearing.
After retrieving several radiation monitors, which were
subsequently stored on the fantail deck and along the port side rail area,
our galley was soon found to be radiated to the point where we could not
enter. As a result, we ate cold cut sandwiches and the cook made coffee
over a blow torch - in other areas of the ship not deemed to be contaminated
by the " white coats," until we were able to get the ship washed down in
port.
When I we returned to San Diego, we were sworn to an oath secrecy,
under severe penalty, and I was told not to have any x-rays taken for at
least 10 years from that date. I feel lucky that after all these years, I
have not exhibited any signs of radiation induced illness, but am concerned
that I have not been able to contact any other members of the crew since my
duty cycle aboard the Tawasa.
R J
Email:rjritter@ghg.net
RJ Ritter is the Vice Commander of the National Association of Atomic Veterans
Keith Whittle
October 19, 2000
[ Operation Wigwam ]