Port of Benton to Host Submarine Veterans Reunion

Port of Benton and the United States Submarine Veterans (USSVI) Yakima Base are co-hosting a gathering of submarine veterans to honor all who served in the United States Submarine Force. 

The event is Saturday, June 10 at 11 a.m. at the USS Triton Sail Park, 3300 Port of Benton Boulevard in Richland. 

The mission of the USSVI: “perpetuate the memory of our shipmates who gave their lives in the pursuit of their duties while serving their country,” will be showcased at the reunion through a welcome speech and introduction of special guests from the Yakima base commander, color guard performance and ‘Tolling of the Boats.’  

The decommissioned USS Triton’s 75-foot-long sail and conning tower are on display at the USS Triton Sail Park to honor submariners and highlight the significance of Triton’s impact on the Nuclear Age. The sail park overlooks the port’s barge slip and high dock where the U.S. Navy transfers nuclear reactor compartments from decommissioned vessels (including Triton’s) onshore for delivery to the nearby Hanford Site for permanent storage. 

Triton was one of the first nuclear-powered submarines, operated solely by dual nuclear reactors, direct descendants of Hanford reactors, including the B Reactor. At the time of Triton’s commissioning in 1959, it was the longest and most powerful submarine ever built. 

Tours inside Triton’s sail and conning tower will be available following the ceremony.