A local Navy seaman was injured in a submarine explosion this weekend. It happened in Germany where twenty-five year old machinist Michael Dayton was stationed...Why would a submarine machinist be "stationed" in Germany? Do we have submariners doing exchanges with the German Navy (like we should be doing with the Aussies)? And what the heck is a "steam fueled blaze"?
...Drukemiller says her son was working on a submarine when he went to repair a pump belt. As he was working on the belt a safety valve exploded. Michael was in the direct path of the steam fueled blaze.
Drukemiller says flames ran up Michael's leg, neck and face. He has third degree burns, and is expected to make a full recovery.
The Navy will fly him to a hospital in San Antonio where he will be treated in the burn unit...
Disregarding the questions raised by the story, I certainly hope Michael Dayton makes a full recovery.
Bell-ringer 0535 21 March: An anonymous commenter has an explanation that makes a lot more sense:
He was onboard the Tender, AS-39, in Italy. Tender was U/W. He was conducting repairs in the bilge of the Tenders Engine Room. Steam Burns from LP steam relief valve discharge.
