Excitement

Things on Johnston Island don't change very much. Every day is pretty much like the day before, and the day after. From time to time, something exciting happens to break up the monotony. This section highlights a few of these things.

(17-21 NOV 99) Three F-15s were enroute from Japan to Langley AFB when the environmental control system inside the lead aircraft malfunctioned. The pilot had his choice of either burning up or freezing to death. All 3 planes landed on JI, giving the pilots a chance to relax while waiting for a maintenance crew to be flown in from Hawaii to repair it.
An earthquake struck Alaska, and a few days later, we had a minor tidal wave. On that day, the ocean around the island became about four feet higher. The highest point on the island is mount Pluto (about 13 feet above water).
A South Korean submarine diverted to JI in search of medical help. One of their sailors had severe appendicitis and was picked up by our Mike boats and a boston whaler. The sailor was immediately flown to Hawaii for medical care via a USCG C-130. This action saved the sailor's life.