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In the heart of Oahu, nestled adjacent to Schofield Barracks, lies a place of extraordinary military aviation history that has witnessed some of the most pivotal moments in American defense. Wheeler Field, established in 1922, stands as a testament to the courage, innovation, and resilience of military aviators who shaped the course of aerial warfare in the Pacific.
The Birth of a Historic Airfield
On February 6, 1922, a small detachment of 20 enlisted men from Luke Field began transforming a former cavalry drill field into what would become a crucial military aviation site. Under the leadership of Lt. William Agee, they cleared the land of weeds, guava, and algaroba trees, erecting two canvas hangars that marked the humble beginnings of Wheeler Field.
A Name of Honor
The airfield was officially named on November 11, 1922, in memory of Major Sheldon H. Wheeler, a distinguished commander of Luke Field who tragically lost his life in a plane crash on July 13, 1921. This naming was more than a mere designation—it was a tribute to the brave aviators who risked everything in the pursuit of aerial excellence.
Pioneering Aviation Milestones
Wheeler Field quickly became a crucible of aviation innovation, hosting several groundbreaking events:
- 1927: First nonstop Mainland-to-Hawaii flight by Army Air Corps Lieutenants Lester J. Maitland and Albert F. Hegenberger
- 1927: The Great Dole Derby air race from California to Hawaii
- 1928: First trans-Pacific flight to Australia by Squadron Leader Charles E. Kingsford-Smith
- 1935: Amelia Earhart's historic solo flight from Wheeler Field to Oakland, California
The Day of Infamy
Perhaps the most significant chapter in Wheeler Field’s history came on December 7, 1941. During the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, the airfield became a critical battleground. Out of 233 aircraft assigned to the Hawaiian Air Force, 146 were in commission before the attack. The devastating raid left only 83 aircraft operational, with 76 completely destroyed.
Despite the overwhelming assault, 12 brave pilots from the 15th Pursuit Group managed to get their P-36 and P-40 aircraft airborne. They engaged the enemy in fierce dogfights, scoring some of the first American victories of World War II by downing 10 enemy aircraft.
Legacy and Transformation
The human cost was significant—33 personnel were killed, and 75 were wounded. Yet, Wheeler Field’s spirit remained unbroken. Throughout World War II and the subsequent conflicts, the base continued to play a crucial role in military aviation.
In August 1987, the Secretary of the Interior designated Wheeler Army Airfield as a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its immense significance in United States military history.
🛩️ Note: Today, Wheeler Army Airfield remains an active military installation, home to various Department of Defense activities and military units.
When was Wheeler Field established?
+Wheeler Field was established on February 6, 1922, by a detachment of 20 enlisted men from Luke Field.
Who was Wheeler Field named after?
+The field was named after Major Sheldon H. Wheeler, a commander of Luke Field who died in a plane crash on July 13, 1921.
What happened to Wheeler Field during the Pearl Harbor attack?
+During the December 7, 1941 attack, Wheeler Field was heavily damaged. Out of 233 aircraft, only 83 remained operational, and 10 enemy aircraft were shot down by American pilots.
