Ever heard of the Hollywood Air Force? Sepulveda Air National Guard Station wasn’t always about combat communications. It has a rich history stretching back to before it even bore that name.
Before it was Sepulveda Air National Guard Station this land served a crucial role in protecting the skies above Los Angeles. Long before the current mission it was once home to a Nike Ajax missile battery. These were the first operational surface-to-air guided missile systems protecting against high-flying bombers. The site’s location was strategically chosen for its defensive capabilities.
The base’s story continues with the California Air National Guard. They occupied the Van Nuys Airport site for many years. This was long after World War II when the federal government gave the airport to the city of Los Angeles. The 146th Tactical Airlift Wing flew medical evacuation flights bringing wounded soldiers home from Vietnam. They also flew supplies to American embassies and military missions in Central America. They even participated in forest-fire fighting missions.
This was more than just a military base. It earned the nickname “Hollywood Air Force” because of the many actors serving within its ranks. Celebrities such as Kurt Russell and Jerry Mathers were members. The base even became a popular filming location for movies and TV shows including Raid on Entebbe The Six Million Dollar Man Call to Glory and Firefox. The presence of the Air National Guard created a unique camaraderie among members and the surrounding community.
But times changed. Increased air traffic at Van Nuys Airport made military-style flying too risky. The Pentagon’s lease expired. The city wanted to develop the land. The Air National Guard moved to a new facility near Point Mugu in Ventura County. The transition marked the end of an era for the base at Van Nuys Airport. But the legacy of the Hollywood Air Force and its unique contribution to Los Angeles lives on. Sepulveda Air National Guard Station continues its vital role in protecting our nation. Its new mission of combat communications ensures our vital communication systems remain secure in any situation. This station holds a unique place in the history of Los Angeles and the United States Air National Guard.