“Remember December 7th” a solemn echo rings as we approach Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Main. This isn’t just a military installation. It is a place where history and present-day operations intertwine.
Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Main stands as a testament to a pivotal moment in American history. It also shows America’s ongoing commitment to national security in the Pacific. Before 2010, this was two separate bases: Naval Station Pearl Harbor and Hickam Air Force Base.
Hickam Air Force Base was named after aviation pioneer Lieutenant Colonel Horace Meek Hickam. He died in an aircraft accident. The base played a crucial role in World War II. It also served during the Korean and Vietnam wars.
Pearl Harbor’s history stretches back further. The early naval station began in 1919. It included a shipyard and coaling station. It also had a naval magazine and a hospital.
Now fast forward to December 7 1941. Japanese planes attacked Pearl Harbor and Hickam Field. The goal was to eliminate air opposition. The attack inflicted extensive damage. 189 people were killed at Hickam. Many aircraft were lost. Bullet holes can still be seen in some buildings.
After the Pearl Harbor attack, Hickam Field became a major training center. It assembled aircraft. It also served as the hub of the Pacific aerial network. It supported aircraft ferrying troops and supplies. It evacuated wounded from forward areas. Hickam earned the nickname “America’s Bridge Across the Pacific”.
In 1957, Far East Air Forces moved from Japan to Hawaii. It was redesignated as Pacific Air Forces PACAF. Hickam AFB became home to PACAF headquarters. The base supported Apollo astronauts. It assisted with Operation Homecoming. This was the return of prisoners of war from Vietnam. Hickam also helped with Operation Babylift. This was the movement of orphans and refugees from Southeast Asia.
In 1985, Hickam Air Force Base was designated a National Historic Landmark. A bronze plaque marks its national significance. It commemorates the history of the United States of America.
On October 1 2010, Naval Station Pearl Harbor and Hickam Air Force Base merged. They became Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. The merger combined the best practices of both the Air Force and the Navy.
Today Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam supports both Air Force and Navy missions. It also supports tenant commands and service members. The base continues to improve its warfighting readiness. It maximizes installation support services.
As we stand here at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam Main let’s appreciate its history. Let us also recognize the dedication of the men and women who serve here. Their commitment helps to protect our nation’s interests in the Pacific. Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam stands ready to respond to any challenge. It is a symbol of resilience and strength.