Luncheon to celebrate Morro Bay’s role in World War II
The U.S. Naval Amphibious Training Base dominated Morro Bay’s waterfront during the 1940s. It was headquartered where the power plant stands today. Photo by Neil Kline.
–In observance of Veterans Day, two local organizations are joining forces to offer a look back at the turbulent times surrounding World War II that permanently changed the landscape and the economy of Morro Bay.
The Historical Society of Morro Bay and Veterans Helping Veterans in Need will host a community luncheon and gathering for area veterans, their families and members of the public. The event will be from noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 8, at the Veterans Memorial Building, located at 209 Surf St. in Morro Bay.
A spaghetti lunch will be served, and attendees will have a chance to view photo presentations and memorabilia, as well as share stories from this important chapter of Morro Bay’s history. The event is free, but donations are gratefully encouraged. Those planning to attend the luncheon are asked to RSVP to (805) 399-2772 on or before Tuesday, Nov. 3.
During World War II, the quiet little fishing village of Morro Bay was taken over by U.S. troops, and suddenly everything changed. Piers were built, bridges were erected and thousands of recruits from nearly every branch of the armed forces came to learn sea-borne invasion techniques that would be implemented on the beaches of Normandy and Saipan. The military provided many improvements to Morro Bay’s harbor area that are still in use today.
The U.S. Naval Amphibious Training Base at Morro Bay provided a realistic training environment where military men learned fighting skills, took to the sea in landing craft, and stormed the beaches of Estero Bay under the simulated resistance of “enemy” troops.
Anyone with historical information or items of interest to contribute to the program may contact the Historical Society at MorroBayHistorical@gmail.com or (805) 399-2772.
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