Texas World War II Army Airfields facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Texas World War II Army Airfields
Type	Army Airfields
Site history
Built	1940-1944
In use	1940-Present

During World War II, the United States Army Air Forces built many airfields in Texas. These airfields were used to train pilots and aircrews. Texas was a great place for this training. It had lots of open land and good weather all year round. By the end of the war, 65 Army airfields were built across the state.

Texas's Role in World War II Air Training

When World War II began, the United States needed many trained pilots. They also needed crews to fly the airplanes. The United States Army Air Forces was the air branch of the U.S. Army at that time. They were in charge of getting these airmen ready.

Why Texas Was Perfect for Airfields

Texas offered ideal conditions for training. Its vast, flat landscapes were perfect for building runways. The warm, clear weather meant pilots could train almost every day. This was very important for quickly preparing aircrews for battle. The state's central location also made it easy to send new pilots to different war zones.

Training for the War Effort

Thousands of young men came to Texas to learn how to fly. They learned to fly many types of planes. This included fighter planes and large bombers. The airfields were busy places. They had classrooms, barracks for soldiers, and hangars for planes. The training was tough but necessary. It helped the United States win the war.

What Happened to the Airfields

After World War II ended in 1945, many airfields were no longer needed. Some were closed down completely. Others were turned into civilian airports. This means they became places where regular passenger planes land. Some airfields are still used by the military today. They continue to serve the country.

List of Texas World War II Airfields

Here is a list of the airfields built in Texas during World War II. It also shows what they are called today. Many of these places are still important for travel or military use.