The commemorative event began with approximately 50 descendants of the USAT Merritt refugees and their families arriving by ferry at Ayala Cove on Angel Island State Park and taking shuttles to Fort McDowell. Visiting these army barracks, where the refugees lived while anxiously awaiting their immigration status to be confirmed, was a somber moment of tribute to these brave refugees. The event attendees witnessed the setting, where these people finally found hope of safety after living in perpetual fear of war and the threat of deportation.

After exploring Fort McDowell, the group proceeded by shuttle to the Angel Island Immigration Station, where they were treated to a brief reception, with an array of food, Russian tea, candies, and desserts, prepared by CRA staff and volunteers.   After introductory remarks made by Angel Island staff and CRA President, Natalie Sabelnik, Olga Kachina presented a detailed historical account of the USAT Merritt journey and the families that were on board. Many of the descendants also shared photographs and stories of their families’ struggles and throughout the USAT Merritt journey. The full-day’s program concluded with a tour of the Angel Island Immigration Station Museum.

This nostalgic event provided an opportunity for descendent families, scattered across the United States over time, to reunite and share a treasured moment in their common family histories. CRA was proud to sponsor the commemoration of such a valuable moment in history and honor the brave refugees that left their homeland in search of safety and stability.