Panorama Looking North in 1949

Originally constructed in 1927, this installation has changed names and ownership several times. Originally established as Kawaihapai Military Reservation in 1927, it was redesignated as Mokuleia Airfield and was used by the Army Air Forces throughout World War II. The name was changed to Dillingham Air Force Base after the USAF was formed in 1947. The base was deactivated in 1948 and returned to the Army.

Presently, the Army uses the field for small unit maneuvers of platoon and squad size. Helicopters also use the field for training for both day and night tactical flight operations. The runways are jointly used by civilian planes and commercial gliders and are leased and controlled by the State of Hawaii. The Army maintains priority for use at all times.

Take a virtual tour of Dillingham AFB in August of 1949, (less than two years after deactivation) in the photo gallery below. The photos are courtesy of the 15th Airlift Wing History Office. Abbreviated descriptions are written across the faces of the photos.

Aerial View in Aug of 1942

P-40s Refueling, Circa 1942

An OR&L train rumbles by, Northbound in 1942

Overhead view in Sept of 1947

Barracks in 1949

Fire Station 1950

Panorama Looking East in 1949

Radio Bldg in 1949

Radio Bldg in 2000

Water Tank in 1949

Aerial Oblique looking East in July 1949

NOAA aerial of Dillingham in June 2000