Learning About the Military Airfields of Oahu

Military airfields of Oahu had an important role in the Pearl Harbor attack. Oahu, the third-largest island in Hawaii, is renowned not just for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture but also for its pivotal role in military history. Among its numerous contributions to the defense and strategic interests of the United States, the military airfields of Oahu stand out as crucial elements in both historical and contemporary contexts. Exploring these airfields offers a window into the past and an appreciation for the strategic importance they held during key moments in American history.

The most famous of Oahu’s military airfields is undoubtedly the one at Pearl Harbor. On December 7, 1941, this location became the epicenter of a pivotal moment in World War II when the Japanese Navy launched a surprise attack on the U.S. naval base. This attack led to the United States’ formal entry into the war and marked a turning point in global history. The airfield at Pearl Harbor, known as Ford Island, played a central role in the ensuing conflict, housing several critical military operations and aircraft.
Today, Pearl Harbor remains a site of deep historical significance. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center provides extensive exhibits on the events of December 7th and the broader context of World War II. The USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri, and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum are just a few of the sites that commemorate the sacrifices made here and provide insights into the airfields’ role during this tumultuous period.

Adjacent to Pearl Harbor is Hickam Air Force Base, another key military airfield on Oahu. Established in 1935, Hickam has been integral to the U.S. Air Force’s operations in the Pacific. Like Pearl Harbor, Hickam was significantly impacted by the events of December 7, 1941, as it too was a target of the Japanese attack. Despite the damage, Hickam quickly rebounded and continued to serve as a crucial hub for military aviation.
Hickam Air Force Base is renowned for its role in various conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. It has evolved over the decades, reflecting advancements in aviation technology and changes in military strategy. Today, Hickam Air Force Base continues to operate, supporting various missions and training programs, and remains a symbol of the United States’ commitment to maintaining a strong military presence in the Pacific region.

Bellows Field, located on the eastern side of Oahu, has also played a significant role in the island’s military history. Originally established in the 1920s, it served primarily as a training ground for aviators. During World War II, Bellows Field became an important site for training pilots and preparing them for combat roles.
In the years following the war, Bellows Field continued to serve various functions, including providing support for aerial operations and serving as a base for reconnaissance missions. Today, the field is known as Bellows Air Force Station and continues to support various military and civilian operations, demonstrating the ongoing importance of airfields in national security.