How a 'Magnesium Flare' Started a Fire on a U.S. Navy Aircraft Carrier

USS Oriskany
September 13, 2024 Topic: Security Region: Americas Blog Brand: The Reboot Tags: MilitaryDefenseHistoryUSS OriskanyAircraft CarrierU.S. Navy

How a 'Magnesium Flare' Started a Fire on a U.S. Navy Aircraft Carrier

In 1966, the USS Oriskany experienced a catastrophic fire caused by the mishandling of a magnesium flare, resulting in 44 fatalities and significant material damage.

 

Image Credit: Creative Commons images of USS Oriskany sinking in a military exercise years later.