Naval Security Group Activity (NSGA) - Adak Alaska
NSGA Adak – Fire Station 2
Intro / Context
Adak Island, part of the Aleutian Island chain, is 1,200 miles west of Anchorage, and was one of the most remote duty stations in the U.S. Navy. From late December 1979 to mid-June 1982, Mike served at the Naval Security Group Activity (NSGA) and was assigned to Fire Station 2, protecting both the base community and sensitive Cold War intelligence facilities.
Role
U.S. Navy Firefighter
Adak Island, part of the Aleutian Island chain, is 1,200 miles west of Anchorage, and was one of the most remote duty stations in the U.S. Navy. From late December 1979 to mid-June 1982, Mike served at the Naval Security Group Activity (NSGA) and was assigned to Fire Station 2, protecting both the base community and sensitive Cold War intelligence facilities.
Role
U.S. Navy Firefighter
- Rode Tailboard, then became Engineer, followed by becoming a section Captain, responsible for a crew.
- Responded to structure, aircraft, and wildland fires in extreme Aleutian weather.
- Protected NSGA’s high-security communications facilities.
- Operated and maintained vintage International Harvester pumper trucks.
- Worked alongside base security, airfield fire crews, and civilian staff.
- Fire Station 2 responded to an alarm at the administration building. With smoke visible, we quickly realized we needed backup from Fire Station 1 at NAS downtown. Three trucks fought the blaze, which caused about $300,000 in damage. Crews experienced a few minor injuries and went through a ton of SCBA bottles before the fire was out.
- Earned a meritorious advancement to Petty Officer Third Class for performance, leadership, and dedication while serving as a firefighter in one of the Navy’s most remote and challenging duty stations.
- I had a proud moment during a base inspection inside an aircraft hangar at NAVSTA. With 500 plus in attendance, Captain John Shivik stopped in front of me and said: "Now this is what a sailor is supposed to look like." Grinning ear to ear, I met with the captain later that day in his quarters for a handshake and a couple of pictures.
- My buddy Jake and I spent countless days fishing, snagging salmon, exploring the island, taking photos, ordering stereo equipment, and playing poker after hours. The galley crew would clean and cook our fish for 50% of the catch. Jake and I still keep in touch after 45 years.
Life on Adak
Life on Adak meant braving horizontal rain, 100-mph winds, and weeks without seeing the sun. Supplies came by barge and a weekly "garbage" flight, and every piece of equipment had to be maintained with care. The isolation built strong bonds among the crew — Fire Station 2 became like family.
Closing / Legacy
Serving at NSGA Adak during the Cold War was more than a job — it was a mission. Our work ensured the safety of people, property, and national security operations in one of the most challenging environments in the Navy.
Closing / Legacy
Serving at NSGA Adak during the Cold War was more than a job — it was a mission. Our work ensured the safety of people, property, and national security operations in one of the most challenging environments in the Navy.
