Wheeler AF BASE Hawaii

• Founding Year: Wheeler Army Airfield, originally Wheeler Field, was established in 1922, making it one of the oldest military airfields in Hawaii. • Named After: The base is named in honor of Major Sheldon H. Wheeler, a pioneering Army aviator who died in a plane crash in 1921. • Pearl Harbor Attack: Wheeler Field was one of the first sites attacked during the Japanese assault on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. The attack destroyed or damaged a significant number of aircraft on the ground. • Defensive Actions: Despite the surprise, several pilots at Wheeler managed to take off during the attack, including the famous 2nd Lieutenants George Welch and Kenneth Taylor, who engaged enemy aircraft in dogfights. • Strategic Importance: Before World War II, Wheeler Field served as the principal fighter defense for the island of Oahu and played a key role in Hawaii’s air defense strategy. • Historic Landmark: Wheeler Army Airfield was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1987, recognizing its significance in American military history and its role during the Pearl Harbor attack. • Transition to Army: After World War II and the creation of the U.S. Air Force, Wheeler Field was transferred to the U.S. Army in 1949 and renamed Wheeler Army Airfield. • Modern Use: Today, Wheeler Army Airfield supports Army aviation units, including helicopters such as the UH-60 Black Hawk and AH-64 Apache, and serves as a hub for the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade. • Hollywood Connection: Wheeler Airfield has appeared in several movies and TV shows, including "Tora! Tora! Tora!" and "Pearl Harbor," due to its historic buildings and role in the 1941 attack. • Community and Heritage: The base hosts annual commemorative events for the Pearl Harbor attack and is actively involved in preserving and interpreting its rich military heritage for both service members and the public.