Hamilton Army Airfield: A Comprehensive Guide to its Past, Present, and Future

History of Hamilton Army Airfield

Located in Novato, California, Hamilton Army Airfield has a rich and storied history dating back to World War II. Originally known as Hamilton Field, it was established in 1943 as a training base for the U.S. Army Air Forces. The airfield played a crucial role in the war effort, serving as a staging point for aircraft and personnel bound for the Pacific Theater.

After the war, Hamilton Field transitioned into a civilian airport, serving as a hub for both commercial and general aviation. However, with the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950, the airfield was reactivated as a military base. It continued to serve as a training and staging facility for the U.S. Air Force until 1974, when it was once again returned to civilian control.

Hamilton Army Airfield Today

Today, Hamilton Army Airfield is a vibrant hub for aviation and aerospace. It is home to multiple businesses, including aircraft maintenance and repair companies, flight training schools, and research and development facilities. The airfield also hosts a variety of aviation events throughout the year, including air shows and fly-ins.

In addition to its aviation activity, Hamilton Army Airfield is also a popular destination for recreation. The airfield features a park with walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. There is also a museum dedicated to the history of aviation in the Bay Area.

The Future of Hamilton Army Airfield

Hamilton Army Airfield is well-positioned for continued growth and development. The airfield has a long runway that can accommodate large aircraft, and it is located near major transportation hubs. This makes it an ideal location for businesses that require access to both air and ground transportation.

Additionally, Hamilton Army Airfield is home to a skilled workforce with experience in aviation and aerospace. This makes it an attractive location for companies looking to expand their operations in these industries.

Facts and Figures

• Hamilton Army Airfield is located on 1,400 acres of land.
• The airfield has two runways, one of which is 10,000 feet long.
• Hamilton Army Airfield is home to over 100 businesses.
• The airfield generates an estimated $1 billion in economic activity each year.
• Hamilton Army Airfield is a major employer in Marin County, with over 5,000 employees.

Table of Contents

• History of Hamilton Army Airfield
• Hamilton Army Airfield Today
• The Future of Hamilton Army Airfield
• Facts and Figures
• Table 1: Businesses Located at Hamilton Army Airfield
• Table 2: Aviation Activity at Hamilton Army Airfield
• Table 3: Economic Impact of Hamilton Army Airfield

Table 1: Businesses Located at Hamilton Army Airfield

Table 2: Aviation Activity at Hamilton Army Airfield

Table 3: Economic Impact of Hamilton Army Airfield

Tips and Tricks for Visiting Hamilton Army Airfield

• If you are planning to visit Hamilton Army Airfield, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
• The airfield is open to the public, but some areas are restricted.
• Be sure to check the airfield website for information on public access.
• There is a museum on the airfield that is dedicated to the history of aviation in the Bay Area.
• The museum is open daily from 10am to 4pm.
• There is a park on the airfield that features walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.
• The park is open daily from dawn to dusk.
• There are a variety of restaurants and shops located on the airfield.
• The airfield is a popular destination for aviation enthusiasts.
• If you are planning to visit on a weekend, be sure to arrive early to avoid crowds.

Interesting Stories

Here are three interesting stories about Hamilton Army Airfield:

• During World War II, a B-24 bomber crashed on the airfield.
• The pilot and crew survived the crash, but the aircraft was destroyed.

• The wreckage of the bomber was left on the airfield for many years as a reminder of the war.

• In the 1950s, Hamilton Army Airfield was used as a training base for the U.S. Air Force.

• One of the pilots who trained at the airfield was Chuck Yeager.

• Yeager later became the first person to break the sound barrier.

• In the 1970s, Hamilton Army Airfield was returned to civilian control.

• The airfield has since become a hub for aviation and aerospace businesses.
• It is also a popular destination for recreation.

What We Learn from These Stories

These stories illustrate the rich history of Hamilton Army Airfield. They also show how the airfield has evolved over time to meet the changing needs of the community.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Hamilton Army Airfield:

1. Is Hamilton Army Airfield open to the public?
   * Yes, the airfield is open to the public, but some areas are restricted.

   

2. Are there any fees to visit Hamilton Army Airfield?
   * No, there are no fees to visit the airfield.

3. What are the hours of operation for Hamilton Army Airfield?
   * The airfield is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

4. Is there a museum on Hamilton Army Airfield?
   * Yes, there is a museum on the airfield that is dedicated to the history of aviation in the Bay Area.

5. What are the hours of operation for the museum?
   * The museum is open daily from 10am to 4pm.

6. Is there a restaurant on Hamilton Army Airfield?
   * Yes, there is a restaurant on the airfield that is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

7. Is there a gift shop on Hamilton Army Airfield?
   * Yes, there is a gift shop on the airfield that sells aviation-related souvenirs.

8. Can I take my dog to Hamilton Army Airfield?
   * Yes, you can take your dog to the airfield, but it must be on a leash at all times.