Introduction

The US Army Airfields on Saint Croix played a significant role in the Allied victory during World War II. Located in the US Virgin Islands, these airfields served as a crucial stopover for military aircraft en route to Europe and Africa. In this post, we will delve into the history of these airfields and their contribution to the war effort.

Early Years

Before the outbreak of World War II, Saint Croix was a small island with limited infrastructure and no significant military presence. However, as tensions began to rise in the early 1940s, the US government recognized the strategic importance of the island’s location in the Caribbean. In 1941, the US Army Air Forces (USAAF) established an airfield on Saint Croix, which was initially used for reconnaissance and surveillance missions.

Construction of the Airfields

The construction of the airfields began in earnest in the summer of 1942. The US Army Corps of Engineers worked tirelessly to build two airfields: Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (HRR) and Christiansted Harbor Seaplane Base (CHR). HRR was built on a flat plain near Christiansted, the capital of Saint Croix, while CHR was constructed on the waterfront in Christiansted.

Operations

Once completed, the airfields were put into operation. HRR served as a primary landing site for military aircraft, while CHR handled seaplanes and other small planes. The airfields played a crucial role in ferrying supplies and personnel between the US mainland and Europe.

Logistics

The logistics of operating these airfields were complex and challenging. Supplies had to be transported from the mainland to Saint Croix by ship, then trucked to the airfields. Fuel was also a major concern, as it had to be stored on site and distributed to aircraft.

Maintenance

Maintenance was another critical aspect of airfield operations. The US Army Air Forces worked closely with local mechanics and engineers to ensure that aircraft were kept in top condition. This involved routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and repairs to damaged planes.

Security

Security was also a major concern at the airfields. The US military established a strong presence on the island, with soldiers stationed at both HRR and CHR. Local residents were also recruited to help with security duties.

Impact of the War

The impact of the war on Saint Croix was significant. Thousands of American troops passed through the airfields during their deployment to Europe. The local economy boomed as a result of the influx of military personnel, who brought much-needed cash and supplies to the island.

Legacy

Today, both HRR and CHR continue to operate as civilian airports. However, remnants of the war effort remain on the island. Visitors can still see abandoned military buildings and equipment scattered throughout Saint Croix.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the US Army Airfields on Saint Croix played a vital role in the Allied victory during World War II. The construction, operation, and maintenance of these airfields were complex tasks that required coordination between local authorities, the US military, and civilian contractors. Despite the challenges faced by those involved, the airfields remained operational throughout the war, providing critical support to the Allied effort.

References

  1. “US Army Air Forces in World War II” by the US Army Center of Military History
  2. “The Virgin Islands during World War II” by the Virgin Islands National Park Service
  3. “Saint Croix: A Brief History” by the Saint Croix Landmarks Society