TUG HOGA
The Navy tug HOGA is the last surviving and operable Navy vessel
to have been active in Pearl Harbor during the Japanese attack
of December 7, 1941. HOGA operated without stopping, from that
Sunday morning until Wednesday, fighting fires, rescuing sailors,
saving the USS Oglala by pushing her away from the doomed Arizona,
and helping the battleship Nevada to ground herself to avoid sinking
in the Pearl Harbor entrance channel. HOGA and her crew received
a special citation from Admiral Chester Nimitz for her heroic
work in those dark days.
After the war, HOGA served the Port of Oakland California as
fireboat for many years, until her recent retirement. Now, HOGA
is at a pier in San Francisco Bay awaiting disposition by the
Navy.
A non-profit group has been formed in Honolulu and San Francisco,
called The Friends of the Pearl Harbor Tug HOGA. The Friends is
working to raise the necessary funds to take custody of the tug
and bring her back to Pearl Harbor as part of the historical display
near the USS Arizona and the WWII submarine Bowfin.
Further information available from Frank McHale, President,
(via mchalef001@hawaii.rr.com)
or mail care of 614 Kapahulu Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
Thanks to TES for the use of the photos until I can get some
from the source. Tom Freeman did the painting of the 1941 action,
please respect his artistic rights. Please consider how you can
help saving this heroic vessel.
Mahalo and Aloha !
Here's a history on the City
of Oakland as the Hoga was known until retirement.
You'll find some historical pictures at the following locations:
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