December 7, 1941 – The Other Oahu Targets

December 7, 1941, is a date that resonates deeply in American history. It’s famously known for the surprise attack by Japanese forces on Pearl Harbor, thrusting the United States into World War II. While the devastating assault on Pearl Harbor is well-remembered, other crucial military bases on Oahu island also faced significant attacks.

While Pearl Harbor was the primary focus, the Japanese also aimed to incapacitate other military bases on Oahu. These secondary targets were crucial for the US military’s operational capabilities and included airfields and barracks that supported naval operations and housed significant military personnel.

Other locations that were attacked by the Japanese in Oahu beside Pearl Harbor are:

Located adjacent to Pearl Harbor, Hickam Field was a vital airbase for the US Army Air Forces. It played a significant role in maintaining air superiority in the Pacific theater. The attack on Hickam Field resulted in extensive damage to aircraft and infrastructure, significantly hindering the US’s ability to conduct immediate aerial counterattacks.

Wheeler Field, situated in the central part of Oahu, was another critical airbase. The Japanese attack on Wheeler Field aimed to destroy the fighter planes that could repel the assault on Pearl Harbor. The damage inflicted here severely limited the US’s defensive aerial capabilities, contributing to the success of the Japanese operation.

Bellows Field, located on the windward side of Oahu, served as a small airfield primarily used for training. Despite its secondary role, it became a target during the attack. The Japanese strikes caused damage to aircraft and facilities, illustrating the comprehensive nature of the assault intended to neutralize all potential threats.

Kaneohe Naval Air Station was a key installation for the US Navy’s aviation operations. The station housed a fleet of seaplanes crucial for reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare. The attack on Kaneohe was swift and destructive, crippling the station’s capabilities and contributing to the broader Japanese strategy of disabling US naval aviation.

Ewa Marine Corps Air Station, located near Pearl Harbor, was another significant target. The Japanese forces aimed to destroy the Marine Corps aircraft stationed there, which were essential for defending the Hawaiian Islands. The successful attack on Ewa further weakened the US military’s immediate response capabilities.

Schofield Barracks was one of the largest US Army installations on Oahu. The Japanese attack here aimed to disrupt the coordination and mobilization of US ground forces. While the barracks did not face as severe damage as the airfields, the assault on Schofield Barracks added to the chaos and hindered the overall defense efforts.

Ford Island, situated in the middle of Pearl Harbor, was another pivotal site. It hosted several battleships targeted during the assault and served as a central point for naval aviation. The attack on Ford Island resulted in significant destruction of aircraft and naval resources, further crippling the Pacific fleet’s operational capabilities.

Recognizing the other targets of the December 7, 1941, attack on Oahu is crucial for understanding the full scope of the events that transpired. While Pearl Harbor remains the focal point, the attacks on various military installations and their subsequent impacts highlight the extensive strategy employed by the Japanese forces. Remembering these other targets helps paint a more comprehensive picture of the day that changed the course of naval warfare and history.