About this Unit
NAVMAG Indian Island, located near Port Hadlock, Washington, serves as the U.S. Navy’s primary ordnance handling and storage facility in the Pacific Northwest. Established during World War II, the installation’s mission has focused on the safe storage, loading, and unloading of ammunition and explosives for Navy ships and submarines. Over the decades, NAVMAG Indian Island has supported operations ranging from Cold War deterrence to modern fleet deployments, ensuring critical munitions logistics for both Pacific and global missions. Today, the facility remains a vital component of the Navy’s ordnance network, emphasizing safety, environmental stewardship, and mission readiness.
Historical Facts
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Strategic Location: NAVMAG Indian Island is located near Port Hadlock, Washington, at the northern entrance to Puget Sound, making it a critical access point for naval logistics in the Pacific Northwest.
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World War II Origins: The installation was established in 1941 as part of the U.S. Navy’s rapid expansion before and during World War II, primarily to store and handle munitions.
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Primary Mission: NAVMAG Indian Island’s main mission is to safely store, handle, and transfer ordnance and munitions for U.S. Navy and allied vessels, playing a key role in Pacific Fleet operations.
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Only Deep-Water Ammunition Wharf in Puget Sound: The base houses the only deep-water ammunition pier in Puget Sound, allowing for the loading and unloading of munitions to large naval vessels including aircraft carriers and submarines.
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Environmental Stewardship: The island is notable for its efforts in environmental protection, maintaining large tracts of undeveloped land and serving as habitat for bald eagles and other wildlife.
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Historic Ammunition Handling: During the Cold War and Vietnam War, the facility was a vital hub for ammunition supply and transfer for ships deploying to the Pacific and Southeast Asia.
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Security and Secrecy: Due to its sensitive mission, Indian Island is highly secured, with public access strictly prohibited, and is sometimes referred to as the “invisible base.”
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Support for Allies: The base not only supports U.S. Navy operations, but also provides ordnance handling for allied navies, including those from Canada and other NATO countries.
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Modernization and Upgrades: NAVMAG Indian Island has undergone significant modernization over the decades, including seismic upgrades, new wharf construction, and enhanced safety protocols.
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Community Relations: The installation actively engages with the local community through environmental partnerships, emergency preparedness exercises, and periodic briefings, helping foster a positive relationship with residents of Jefferson County.
