During World War II, 16 million Americans served in the Armed Forces. While most of those brave men and women fought and served overseas, many Oregonians served right here, patrolling the coastline, and monitoring enemy communications. There are still several remnants of the war here on the Oregon Coast, including an abandoned WWII radar station at Cape Meares.
Cape Meares was the spot for one of 65 radar stations situated all along the West coast during World War II.
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The station was built in 1943, and around 50 men monitored enemy aircraft and ships here until it was deactivated in 1944.
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The official name of the station was Station B-25, and it was situated on the side of the hill, concealed by trees. The forested area was perfect for hiding a radar station from enemy forces.
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The walls of Station B-25 were built 12 inches thick, and it measured 80 by 21 feet. Four rooms inside provided working space for the men who were on constant alert for the enemy.
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The remnants of the abandoned radar station are still there, including the antenna piers and walls. You can hike up to see it for yourself.
Moonstruck Exploring/YouTube Start from the Short Beach access point and hike up Cape Meares Loop Road. Watch for a steep path that goes right up the embankment. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and take care - it’s steep and slippery!
Though the roof is gone, much of this little radar station still stands, and it’s a fascinating piece of history.
Moonstruck Exploring/YouTube Check out this video posted on YouTube by Moonstruck Exploring:
You might want to subscribe to Moonstruck Exploring’s YouTube channel – it features many videos of abandoned and historic places. Do you have stories about Oregon’s World War II history? We’d love to read them in the comments section!
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Moonstruck Exploring/YouTube
Start from the Short Beach access point and hike up Cape Meares Loop Road. Watch for a steep path that goes right up the embankment. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and take care - it’s steep and slippery!
Check out this video posted on YouTube by Moonstruck Exploring:
If you’re interested in WWII history, you’ll want to visit Fort Stevens, which was attacked by a Japanese submarine in 1942. You can also visit this huge blimp hangar at the Tillamook Air Musuem.
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Address: Cape Meares, OR 97141, USA
