Jan 11, 1945 CONFIDENTIAL ------------ To: Chief of Naval Operations (History Unit, Op-33-J-6, Office of Editorial Research). Subj: History of Naval Air Station, Kodiak, Alaska - Sub- mission of. Ref: (a) Manual for Historical Officers, NavAer 00-25Q-26. 1. In accordance with paragraph 5(f) of ref. (a), the subject history through 31 December 1944 is submitted in duplicate as enclosure 1. (signed) W. M. McDade Captain, U.S. Navy Commanding Encl: (HW) 1. Subject history (2 copies). cc: (Without Enclosure) ComdrNavAirBase Com 17 (WE) HISTORY OF U.S. NAVAL AIR STATION KODIAK, ALASKA In Three Parts: 1. Chronology 2. Narrative 3. Appendices Four copies submitted 28 December 1944 at Naval Air Station, Kodiak, Alaska: Copies 1 & 2 to Historical Unit Op-33-J-6, Office of Educational Research. Copies 3 to Com17, Adak, Alaska. Copies 4 to N.A.S., Kodiak, Alaska. 1. CHRONOLOGY (1) Date of Commissioning, Naval Air Station, Kodiak, Alaska, 15 June 1941. (2) Name and rank of Commanding Officers of Naval Air Station, from date of commission to present. (a) Capt. John Perry, USN (Held rank of Commander while Commanding Officer of Naval Air Station, Kodiak). Capt. James Edward Dyer, USN (Temporary rank of Captain 18 June 1942). Capt. William Mabry McDade, USN. (b) Dates of Command. Capt..John Perry, USN - 15 June 1941 (Date of commissioning) to 26 June 1942. Capt. James E. Dyer, USN - 26 June 1942 - 28 July 1943. Capt. William M. McDade, USN - 28 July 1943 - present. (c) Home Town. Capt. John Perry, USN - Enoree, South Carolina (place of birth). Capt. James E. Dyer, USN - Rumford, Maine (permanent address). Capt. William M. McDade, USN - San Diego, California (permanent address). (d) Biographical data of Commanding Officers. (See appendices #19). (e) Pictures of Commanding Officers. (See appendices #20). (see appendices #20(a) for formation at change of command). (3) Transfers from one command to another. (a) Command as of 15 June 1941, date of commissioning. 1) Bureau of Aeronautics. 2) Commandant, 13th Naval District. 3) Commander, Alaskan Sector. C-1 4) Commanding Officer, N.A.S., Kodiak, Alaska. (b) Command as of 15 April 1944. 1) Chief of Naval Operations (Air). 2) Commandant, 17th Naval District. 3) Commanding Officer of N.A.S. and N.O.B., Kodiak. (4) Significant changes in function. (a) Naval Air Station, Kodiak, commissioned 15 June 1941 (See appendices #1). (b) Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, commissioned 9 June 1942, comprising Naval Air Station, Submarine Base, and Section Base. (See appendices #80). (c) Naval Operating Base, Kodiak, remains same but Commandant designation changed 20 July 1942. (See appendices #81). (d) Naval Operating Base Activities, Kodiak, changed 1 January 1943 to comprise Naval Air Station, Submarine Base, and Marine Barracks. (See appendices #82). (e) Naval Air Station, Kodiak, on 28 August 1944, assigned to the Naval Air Bases Command, 17th Naval District, with N.A.S., Kodiak, as Headquarters and Commanding Officer of N.A.S., Kodiak, as Commander, Naval Air Bases, 17th Naval District. (See appendices #83). (f) Headquarters and Commander of Naval Air Bases Command, 17th Naval District, on 8 November 1944 changed from Kodiak to Adak. (See appendices #84). (5) President Visits Naval Air Station, Kodiak. (a) President inspects station and personnel, see photograph. (Appendices #65). C-2 2. NARRATIVE The Naval Air Station, Kodiak, was commissioned (established) on 15 June 1941 (see appendices #1) with Commander John Perry, U. S. Navy, in command. Under BuNav Orders #10265 dated 5 March 1941 (see appendices #2), Comdr. Perry departed Seattle, Wash., via the S.S. DENALI on 1 April 1941 for Kodiak, Alaska. He arrived 8 April 1941 and reported by despatch to Commandant, THIRTEENTH Naval District that he had assumed duty as Prospective Commanding Officer in connection with the establishment of the Air Station. Upon establishment of the station on 15 June 1941 he reported by despatch to Commandant, THIRTEENTH Naval District for duty involving flying as Commanding Officer. Prior to the date of commissioning of the Naval Air Station, Kodiak, Alaska, the early development and activities which led to its selection consti- tute a certain amount of pioneering and adventure. A comprehensive background of the situations involved are set forth in the establishment talk of its first Commanding Officer, Commander, John Perry, U. S. Navy, which is given here in its entirety: "Before reading my orders I would like to outline for you briefly the history of the station, what our present military situation is, and the general objective toward which we are working. Strangely, but truly a station not yet established has a comparatively lengthy history. It started from a chart study in the Plans Division of the Bureau of Aeronautics in the Spring of 1927 - before trans-Atlantic flying became popular. This study indicated that we should have one main and several - 1 - N-1 subsidiary bases in the Alaskan sector and the general vicinity of Kodiak appeared the best strategical location for the main base. The above report was circulated around the Navy Department, generally agreed with, then sent to file to gather dust. About 1933 interest revived. In succeeding years a number of inspection trips were made. (See appendices #85 for description of one such trips re- ferred to). In 1937 Womens Bay was definitely selected as the site of the future seaplane activities; the Buskin River Flats as a landing field. In the Fall of that year the old Navy Radio Station on Woody Island was dis- carded as the site of a temporary seaplane base for use pending the establish- ment of facilities at Womens Bay. The expedition sent to investigate the Woody Island site had to wait three days for water conditions which would per- mit a safe crossing from Kodiak. The picture under gale conditions was not quite as pretty as it had appeared on a calm summer day under warm sunshine. During the winter of 1937-38 a survey party was organized. It arrived on the scene, if i recall correctly, on March 27th, 1938. The work of this party, of which some of you present were members, ended the conversational and started the working stage of the station development. By pure coincidence, it now appears probably that the patrol plane squadron the survey party saw moored off SHANNON Point when the partridge rounded the end of the peninsula, will be the first squadron, under a new number, to use our facilities starting about August First. An air station has one and only one reason for its existence - to furnish services to the combat squadrons which base thereon. These services are mani- - 2 - N-2 fold. To render them, the station must be protected - from without and made secure from within. The former is the responsibility of Colonel Lindsay, Captain Cook, and their Army troops. He protects us by his long range guns, by his anti-aircraft artillery and, eventually, by fighter (or pursuit) planes. That is the main reason for building a landing field. Security from within is provided by Colonel Martyr and his Marines - from fire and from destruction of our facilities by sabotage. Believe it or not, the policing activities of a Marine are merely a sideline. We can't operate an air station that isn't here. The building of it is a responsibility of Commander Coryell, Mr. Henry, and their associates. Their job has been made doubly difficult by the fact that we are occupying the station a year before, according to the terms of the contract, it was supposed to have been ready. However, history and Herr Hitler don't always abide by contracts so here we are ---- another millstone around their necks. you can be assured that Colonel Lindsay, Colonel Martyr, and I will make the military burden just as light as our respective orders from higher authority permit. To fulfill its mission, an air station must provide services of all kinds - ramps, parking areas, and hangars for planes; repair facilities, gasoline, bombs and torpedoes; to give them rest and food for their crews. In other words, we must take in planes that are empty and with worn-out crews and send them out a few hours later fully armed, serviced, and rejuvenated. It sounds simple, but after twenty months of work we are still far from being able to accomplish that mission. With the help and cooperation you are now giving that won't be true much longer. - 3 - N-3 Finally, I hope as you do you all that all our work and preparation is futile but just in case - let's be ready if we are needed." ADDITIONAL FACTS CONCERNING KODIAK ---------- ----- ---------- ------ The island of Kodiak lies in the path of the Japanese current, giving it a more equitable climate than that of other areas of similar latitude. The highest recorded temperature is 85 F. and the lowest -12 F. The summer months from June until September are very pleasant and some of the winters are not too disagreeable. The average yearly precipitation of about 60 inches is rather evenly distributed throughout the year. The group of Islands, of which Kodiak is by far the largest, lies at the western border of the Gulf of Alaska in the North Pacific Ocean. The group as a whole has an area of about 4900 square miles. It extends for a distance of 177 miles in a northeast-southwest direction and its greatest width is 67 miles. The Island of Kodiak alone contains an area of 3588 square miles. This group has a coast line of about 1500 miles, which is extremely long compared to the area enclosed, giving it a large number of deep bays and channels. Kodiak Island contains numerous peaks and mountains, (See appendices #21 of Naval Air Station, Kodiak, Alaska, taken 23 January 1942, as altitude 5000' and 15,000' distant; also appendices #22 of naval Air Station, Kodiak, Alaska taken 15 March 1942, at altitude 14,000') many of them rising above 3000 feet. Kodiak also contains a number of fresh water lakes and streams whose discharge is fairly constant due to the evenly distributed rainfall. The Naval Reservation on Kodiak Island, in the vicinity of Women's Bay, is described geographically as follows (see appendices #3): N-4 Kodiak Island comprises 25,482 acres Adjacent Islands 82 acres Water (Salt only) 9407 acres ----- Total 34,971 acres In constructing the station, the major obstacles that had to be overcome were severe weather and bad ground. During the winter months the weather on Kodiak is often very disagreeable. (See photograph taken 19 December 1942, beaching PBY from Bay, appendices #61, and photograph taken 5 February 1944 showing snow removed from runways, appendices #62). It rains quite a bit and the temperature at times is very low, which is a hinderance to almost any type of construction work. The island of Kodiak is covered by a blanket of volcanic ash, from the eruption of Mount Katmai in 1912, varying i depth from 18 inches to 3 feet and in some locations drifts 20 feet deep were found. This blanket deposited on muskeg and rock outcropping alike provided a difficult and unpredictable problem in every foundation and footing installation, along with continuous seepage of surface water. The construction of Navy facilities on the Kodiak Naval Reservation were authorized under an act of Congress of 25 April 1939. General Order No. 126 dated 8 November 1939 withdrew Public Land and Water for Naval Purposes and set forth the areas on "The Eastern portion of Kodiak Island" involved. The first ground was broken by Siems Spokane Company - Johnson, Drake, and Piper, Inc. - Puget Sound Bridge and Dredging Company, the Contractors, on 23 September 1939. Under the original and subsequent authorizations, navy projects with a N-5 total estimated value of $66,320,727 and Army projects with a total estimated value of $28,040,400 (estimated total contract $94,361,127) were placed under cost plus fixed fee contract NOY-3570. The maximum construction strength of the contractors was 3508 men in December, 1942, with an average of 880 men from 1 October 1939 to 30 April 1943 when all remaining construction, excepting dredging, was taken over by Navy Construction Battalions under the 4th Naval Construction Regiment. Naval Construction Battalion personnel employed on construction were: UNIT ARRIVAL DATE DEPARTURE DATE NO. ENLISTED MEN NO. OFFICERS ----- ------------ -------------- ---------------- ------------ 12th Batt. 14 Sept. 1942 12 April 1943 965 27 23rd Batt. 7 Nov. 1942 21 April 1943 980 27 38th Batt. 14 Jan. 1943 6 Aug. 1943 984 27 43rd Batt. 14 Jan. 1943 23 Feb. 1943 942 26 41st Batt. 28 Jan. 1943 3 Mar. 1944 1014 27 45th Batt. 28 Jan. 1943 31 Aug. 1943 1035 27 4th N.C.Reg. 15 Jan. 1943 25 Sept. 1943 89 8 79th Batt. 10 May 1943 4 Oct. 1944 1080 27 8th S.Batt. 6 Aug. 1943 On Board 483 13 26th S.Batt. 23 Sept. 1944 On Board 526 16 The 4th Naval Construction Regiment was disbanded on 25 September 1943 and the remaining Army Construction was assigned to the 41st and 43rd Battalions for completion while the balance of Navy Construction was assigned to the Station Public Works Department, comprised of the 79th Battalion and regular station employees. N-6 On 23 September 1944, the 26th Battalion, comprised of 16 officers and 526 enlisted men, arrived to relieve the 79th who departed 4 October 1944. The other half of the 26the Battalion reported to Dutch Harbor when the 26th arrived in Kodiak. On 6 August 1943 the 8th Special Battalion arrived Kodiak to take over cargo operations. One half of the original unit reported to Attu and the force remaining in Kodiak consisted of 13 officers and 483 enlisted men. On 23 February 1944 this unit was split again, one half going to Dutch Harbor, leaving 8 officers and 244 enlisted men in Kodiak. The base at Kodiak did not develop beyond its original plan. This was mainly due to the fact that a good many of the projects originally planned for this base were canceled and moved further West in order to be nearer the scene of action. Others were reduced. A conservative estimate of the materials and equipment sent out the Chain, from canceled Kodiak projects, has been set at ten million dollars. The original plans called for the construction of a Naval Sir Station with facilities for both land planes and sea planes, consisting of ramps, runways, maintenance and repair shops, storehouses and housing units. The Naval Operat- ing Base was established with the addition of a small Submarine Base adjacent to the N.A.S. which provided repairs for small ships and boats, with floating drydock, shops and additional housing. The large submarine base called for in the original plans were canceled. Of the original and subsequent authorizations set aside for Navy projects in the amount of $66,320,727, an inventory figure compiled as of 30 October 1944 N-7 shows only a valuation of completed installations at $43,712,266. This figure does not cover transportation, construction, and radio equipment costs not available at this station, and which are operating under advanced base account- ing. (See appendices #4 for detail list of the cost broken up per unit installation). (Appendices #5 shows single sheet summary of appendices #4). (Appendices #6 shows general layout of all units). (Appendices #24 shows con- struction of NAS as of 10 April 1942). The facilities installed at the NOB were started and a large portion was completed by the Contractors under Contract NOY-3570. (See photograph showing the stage of construction of N.A.S., Kodiak, as of 25 February 1942, appendices #47) (As of 29 October 1944, appendices #48). (Another view of construction at bearing 045 shows N.A.S., Old Woman's Mountain, Bay, and Nyman Peninsula, as of 23 April 1942, appendices #49). (As of 2 March 1944, appendices #50). The Construction Battalions completed the unfinished projects and made improvements on some of the finished ones. The C.B.'s installed the gun emplacements for harbor defense (see appendices #7 for fixed sea coast defenses and location of anti-aircraft installations) and did most of the work on the underground distribution systems and storage tanks of all types. The C.B.'s also completed a large portion of the work in the construction of the ammunition magazines and storehouses built on Kodiak. (See appendices #23 for picture of Magazine Area completed by Con- tractors as of 23 April 1942 prior to arrival of C.B.'s). One of the most important jobs accomplished for the Army that surrounded Kodiak proper. The major purposes of these stations was the protection of the N-8 main base on Kodiak. These outlying stations in Kodiak Sector were Chernabura, Sand Point, Woody Island, Cold Bay, King Cove, Chirikof, Chiniak, Entrance Point, Cape Greville, Sanak, and Afognak. A part of the work on these bases was done by the Contractors and a small portion by the Army Engineers, but the majority of this work was executed by the C.B.'s. The installation consisted mainly of air and sea defenses and the facilities required for their personnel. Army Construction Forces did none of the work on the Base at Kodiak, but the Army Engineers constructed an air field and facilities at Cold Bay and Chiniak. All of the Army Coast Defense positions in the vicinity of Kodiak were constructed by the C.B.'s. The only local materials used in the construction of this Base were sand and gravel. The facilities installed at the Base on Kodiak were mainly used as they were originally designed. In addition to these uses, this Base was used as a source of supply for several of the other bases nearer to the battle fronts. This station was, and still is, supplied directly from the United States by surface vessels and air transports. Most of these supplies were shipped from Seattle, Washington. OUTLYING STATIONS IN KODIAK SECTOR. -------- -------- -- ------ ------ Of the original outlying stations in the Kodiak Sector which were built, the interesting history to follow outlines the varying functions of each station in the pattern of aids to aviation. At Chernabura, the southernmost island in the Shumagin group off the Alaskan Peninsula (see photograph taken 22 March 1944 bearing 250 at altitude N-9 3000', appendices #25), there is located a Radio and Radar Beacon as a Naviga- tion aid to Surface and Air ships. Chernabura was commissioned May, 1943. (see photograph taken 22 March 1944, bearing 300º, at altitude 3000' showing building atop peak at Chernabura, appendices #26). Sand Point, Popof Island, off the Alaskan Peninsula, was first commissioned as a Section Base in the early part of 1942, later changed to a Naval Auxiliary Air Facility 1 April 1943 and was decommissioned August, 1943. A Radio Range Station, commissioned 22 September 1943, is now located there for aid in air navigation and as a weather observation center. (see photograph taken 22 March 1944 showing emergency landing strip, village, and cannery pier, Sand Point, (Popof Island), Alaska, appendices #27). (Appendices #28 shows photograph of Sand Point (Popof Island), Alaska, taken 22 March 1944 at bearing 104º and at altitude 1000'). On Woody Island, Northeast of St. Paul's Harbor, are located Magnetic Loop and Harbor detection equipment, net depot, and nets for anti-submarine detection and the C.A.A. (Civil Aeronautic Authority) Range Station for air traffic. In October, 1942, a heavy indicator net for surface and under surface vessels consisting of 200' panels, was stretched from Woody Island to Shahafka Cove. If a 200' section of this net was carried away, the net vessel, equipped with depth charges, went into action. This net was approximately 1500 yards long with a 600' gate in the ship channel. It was opened and shut by two YP boats, one of which was on duty at all times. Equipped with anti-aircraft guns and radio these YP boats signaled the approach of all aircraft to Woody Island N-10 signalman, who relayed this information to the aircraft clearance tower on the base. (See photograph of nets and net vessels at harbor entrance, Kodiak, Alaska, appendices #29). In November, 1943, anti-torpedo nets, 30' deep, for protection against the torpedo rather than the submarine, were substituted for the heavier nets installed in October, 1942. In December, 1942, magnetic loop stations were installed at the entrance of the channel leading to Kodiak and at St. Paul's harbor. (see photograph of Woody Island, showing Loop Station and Net Depot, appendices #30). A navy Communications Radio Compass Station was set up on Woody Island during the first World War and is still in operation. The CAA was commissioned 22 June 1941 as a Radio range. (See photograph of Woody Island showing the CAA Radio Range taken 19 March 1944 bearing 70º at 700' altitude, appendices #31). Cold Bay, located near the end of eh Alaskan Peninsula, was set up first as a Navy Air Field Station and commissioned 14 July 1942. The Army also used Cold bay, having Fort Randall located there. It was commissioned May, 1942, with approximately 3500 troops. N.A.F., Cold Bay, was later changed to a Naval Auxiliary Air Facility 1 April 1943 and was finally decommissioned 7 November 1944. The Army's Fort Randall is also in a caretaker status. (see photograph of Cold Bay (Alaskan Peninsula) taken 22 March 1944 showing landing strips and Fort Randall, bearing 005º, at altitude 1000', appendices #32). Cold Bay seaplane emergency anchorage and Fort Randall land plane airport are shown in photograph taken 22 march 1944, bearing 252º, altitude 3500'. (See appendices #33) N-11 King Cove is located on the Southern side of the Alaskan Peninsula just East of the entrance to Cold May and is considered as a part of Cold Bay. King Cove contains a Naval unit with a Marine Railway for ship repairs and is a Naval Auxiliary Air Facility. (See appendices #34 for photograph of King Cove taken 22 March 1944, bearing 270º at altitude 600'). A photograph of King Cove (Naval Unit) taken 22 March 1944 shows seaplane emergency anchorage bearing 110º at altitude 7500'. (See appendices #35). Chirikof Island located Southwest of Kodiak Island, Lat. 55º-54'40" N, Long. 155º-35'20" W, maintains a Radio Range, Radio and Radar Beacon and is also a weather observing station. It was commissioned in December 1942. (See photograph taken 3 March 1944 of Chirikof Island (Racon Station), bearing 140º at altitude 750", appendices #36). Chiniak. located on the Island of Kodiak southeast of N.A.S., Kodiak, is operated and maintained by the Army, was started about June, 1941. Fort Smith, an Army Cantonment Camp, was set up there with about 500 men. An Auxiliary Air Field was constructed and a $15,000 air warning and surface radar unit installed. This unit burned in April, 1944, and was replaced by a radar unit for harbor defense. Chiniak is maintained in a caretaker status at the present time. (See photograph taken 23 July 1944 for Chiniak Emergency Strip, 5000 foot runway #1-19, near Cape Chiniak, Kodiak, Alaska, bearing 230º, appendices #37). Cape Greville, located on Kodiak Island south of Chiniak, was commissioned in April, 1943, as a Radio and Radar Beacon Station. It was turned over to the Coast Guard in October, 1944, to maintain. (See photograph Cape Greville Racon Station, taken 26 December 1944 at altitude 850', appendices #38). N-12 Entrance Point, located on Kodiak Island north from N.A.S., Kodiak, was set up in the early part of 1942 as an anti-aircraft training center. It was decommissioned in December, 1943. (See photograph taken 19 March 1944 at bearing 301º and altitude 800' at harbor and facilities, appendices #39). Sanak, Caton Island, located 54º-24'-45" N 162º-28'-10" W, south of Cold Bay, maintains a Radio Range, Radio and Radar Beacon and is also a weather observing station. It was commissioned in January, 1943. (See photograph taken 22 March 1944 at bearing 040º, altitude 1000'., appendices #40). Afognak, Afognak Island, established March, 1942, as an administrative site, located northeast from N.A.S., Kodiak, is used as a dispersal point for sea planes in case of a raid on Kodiak. VS-49 Squadron used Afognak also as a training station for their pilots. In addition to the above, Afognak was turned into a recreation center in June, 1944, and all personnel stationed on Kodiak were allowed a two or three day excursion trip there, based on a rota- tion program. Excellent bear hunting as well as fishing for trout and salmon are to be had there. (See photograph of Afognak Lake, taken 5 October 1944, showing seaplane emergency anchorage and ramp, bearing 225º, appendices #41). Seward, a section base, located on the southern portion of Kenai Peninsula, is a part of the mainland of Alaska. Seward was placed in commission 31 July 1942 and the construction was done by the U. S. Army Engineers. Lieutenant Paul Rust was the first Commanding Officer. It was later changed to a Naval Auxiliary Air Facility 1 April 1943. The United States Army operated Seward and maintained Fort Ramone there with a defense garrison of approximately 5000 troops which is now in caretaker status. The Naval portion of Seward N-13 was decommissioned 29 July 1943 and turned over to the Coast Guard who super- vise shipping operations and maintain a Captain of the Port there. Air Craft Facilities --- ----- ---------- Two important facilities for the operation and maintenance of all craft on any air station are the N.A.S. Operations Department and Assembly and Repair Department. N.A.S. Operation's Department ----------------------------- N.A.S. Operation's Department plays a vital roll in the supervising of flights, clearance of planes, arranging flight plans, the maintenance and servicing of aircraft and their crews. The personnel of Operations consists of from 6 to 14 officers and an enlisted personnel of from 70 to 126. The planes operated run from 6 to 10 and are made up of 2 J2F's, 2 SNJ-4's, 1 J4F, and 1 JRB. The first flight recorded in the Operations log book was made by Commander Perry on 3 May 1941 in a J2F-1 from Kodiak to Seward, Alaska, and return. The sector covered by Operations is from a point midway between Dutch Harbor and Cold Bay to Yakataga. Branches working under the supervision of Operations man be divided into five groups. Each group is subdivided for their respective coverage. These branches are: a) Photo Lab, b) Utility Units and Pilots, c) Flight Control Center, d) Crash Crew Operations, e) Catapult Operation. The Photo Lab coordinated with operations in survey parties, mapping --------- expeditions, aerial and ground photography. Utility Units and Pilots are used on all diversified missions for which ------------- N-14 they may be called as: a) checking on Government supplies and stores in the sector by special or routine flights, b) Making all emergency trips for in- jured persons, taking doctors to scenes of injury, etc., both for civilian and military personnel. c) Survey parties for the Commandant of the District are made for possible seaplane landings and anchorages. d) Transportation of all types of personnel within the sector. e) Military law enforcement trips, picking up deserters, etc. f) Checking of outlying radio ranges. g) Co- ordinated and cooperative trips with Army. h) Gunnery towing, straffing, trakcing work. i) Searching trips for lost aircraft, ships, salvage work. j) Duty Standby Pilot who supervises all station aircraft for taxiing, beach- ing, launching, servicing and necessary repairs. (See appendices #8, Oper- ations Department Order #8-44 dated 28 July 1944 for detailed duties of the Operations Duty Pilot). k) Such training programs as are necessary for per- sonnel such as link trainers. Two link trainers are operated insuring each pilot receives 4 hours each per month. One link trainer is equipped with YG Radar Beacon Device. (See photograph, appendices #53). Flight Control Center Personnel Offices in the Joint Control Post (See ------ ------- ------ exterior view photograph, appendices #59) and consists of 7 divisions, all under the supervision of the Flight Control Officer. These divisions are: a) Air Clearance and Briefing. b) Air Traffic. c) Navigation. d) Control Tower (See photograph, appendices #58). e) Airdrome Control. f) NATS. (Naval Air Transport Service). g) Operations Duty Officer. Detailed duties of these 7 divisions are detailed under Operations Department Order #8-43 dated 9 September 1943. (See appendices #9). N-15 Crash Crew Operations are maintained and organized at all times. (See ----- ---- ---------- Operations Crash Crew in action, appendices #60). While planes are in the air, crash crews stand by to go into action on a moments notice. (See detailed plan of execution "Aircraft Search and Rescue Bill" dated 25 November 1944.) (This bill awaiting official signature of approval as of 19 December 1944, appendices #10). Catapult of amphibious type was installed as the Naval Air Station during -------- the summer of 1944. It is 480' long and capable of dispatching a plane every 2 minutes. Although no training program has been set up for use of this equipment, it is tested once a month and kept in readiness. (See photograph 23 July 1944 of catapult installation, appendices #57). The officers in charge of Operations Department with date of service are listed in appendices #12. A & R (Assembly & Repair) Department ------------------------------------ A letter from the Commanding Officer of the Naval Air Station, Kodiak, to the Chief of the Bureau of Aeronautics dated 20 June 1941, 5 days after date of commissioning, (see appendices #11) states that no permanent buildings were to be completed until September 1941 and that no supply, operations or assembly and repair officers had reported as of 20 June 1941. A list of aviation equipment on hand, ordered and partially shipped is made in this letter. (See appendices #11 for detailed disposition and quantity of equip- ment considered for the initial operations). Sometime before July, 1942, Lieut. Charles R. Burnett, USNR, was acting A & R Officer at Kodiak. In July, 1942, the A & R Department was commissioned N-16 (See appendices #17 for exterior view of A&R Hangar) and the first A&R Officer to take command was Lieut. Commander J. L. Ewing, USN, of the Academy Class of 1927, home town, Darby, Pennsylvania. Lieutenant Commander Ewing made full Commander in September, 1942. Though A&R began functioning as an overnight activity at its commission- ing all the equipment was not installed. The first airplane to be overhauled was a J2F-1 (Grumman "Duck"). Overhaul of this plane was done with much of the equipment still in shipping crates. Power connections not being permanent, air and electrical power lines criss-crossed the deck to the job at hand. The J2F-1 was rolled out of A&R and test flown in May, 1943. (See photograph, appendices #13(a) with Naval personnel, #13(b) with civilian personnel). During the fall and winter of 42 and the spring of 1943, while Japs held Kiska and Attu, the only fighter protection was a flight of six Curtiss P-40's flown by the Royal Canadian Air Force Fighting Squadron #111. A&R kept the P-40's in flying condition, handling all repairs and adjustments. In the early spring of 1943 the first squadron of fast patrol bombers, the Lockheed PV-1, enroute for the "West" were given their final check-up at Kodiak. (See photograph of PV-1 landing 20 December 1942 or snow plowed run- ways, appendices #45). One PV was grounded because of a fire and became the first PV major repair at Kodiak. In April, 1943, the finished job rolled out to join the rest of the squadron which already had harassed Jap installations on Paranushiro. (See photograph of visiting PV-1 Squadron taken 18 April 1944, appendices #52). In July, 1943, a compressed gas plant was put in operation at Bell's Flats. N-17 A huge 11½ ton sphere of liquid oxygen carried to Kodiak by ship, was converted to gas on the station. A&R now supplies oxygen for all planes and for other station uses. In November, 1943, a R4D crashed in lake near Pasagshak. Life rafts were used to bring the plane up from 20 feet of water. It was floated by barge to A&R which made a complete overhaul and turned it over to VR5. In September, 1943, Commander Ewing was relieved as A&R Officer by Commander R. W. Orrell, home town, Cardinal, Virginia. At about this time the Bureau of Aeronautics authorized Kodiak to overhaul PBY-5 and PBY-5A's which were patrolling the Aleutian waters. (See photograph of 12 PBY-5A's on apron hangar1, appendices #63). These planes affectionately called "P-Boats" or "YOKE-Boats" were the largest planes yet handled by Kodiak. The first major overhaul of "YOKE-B" was completed in May, 1944. These planes were tested by A&R's test pilot, Lt. H. I. June, USN. Changes made in the A&R Department for better production operations, by Officer-in-Charge since September, 1943, are outlined in Memorandum from the A&R Officer to Commander, N.A.S., (See appendices #15). For enterior picture showing A&R Department, see appendices #18. In August, 1944, Commander Orrell was relieved by Lieut. June. Late in August, 1944, thirty-two flying boats (PBN-1's) with Red Russian Star painted on wings and fuselage landed in Kodiak. Men in A&R worked night and day to prepare these lend-lease planes for combat. Working with Russian crews and interpreters, officers and men checked radio, radar, engines and structures of the flying boats, assisting Russian crews to learn the intricacies N-18 of American planes. One by one the planes were equipped with self sealing tanks, machine guns, and search gear - test flown - Russian pilots and crews checked out and flown away to Russia via Faibanks, Alaska. (See appendices #14 for photograph of Russian plane (PBN) launching in Woman's Bay). The present operational chart showing activities covered b the A&R De- partment and the functional operation of each sub-department are outlined by sections. (See appendices #16.). NAVAL AIR UNITS AT N.A.S., KODIAK --------------------------------- General Order #139 of 28 November 1940 established Sitka Naval Air-space Reservation and Kodiak Naval Airspace Reservation. General Order #144 of 29 March 1941 established Kodiak Island and Subic Bay Naval Defense Sea Areas. The first mention of aircraft activity at N.A.S., Kodiak, from records obtainable, is taken from the Commanding Officer's letter of 24 May 1941, (NA34/A1-1/A16-3) to Resident Officer-in-Charge requesting facilities be pre- pared for an un-named squadron of 9 planes; 21 officers and 125 enlisted men that were expected 1 August 1941. Letter from Commander Patrol Wing FOUR to Commanding Officer, N.A.S., Kodiak, of 27 June 1941 (see appendices #66) outlines first movement of VP-42 reconnaissance Air Group to Kodiak and list services required. Operation Order #3-41 from Commander Aleutian Reconnaissance Group of 7 July 1941 (see appendices #67) states that a reconnaissance of the Aleutian Islands commencing about 20 July 1941, would be made to determine the present state of development of existing patrol plane facilities at Kodiak and Dutch N-19 Harbor and their expected dates of readiness and to investigate the suitability of additional sites in the Aleutian Islands for advanced base operations with tender support. Reconnaissance Air Group Patron FORTY-TWO followed tentative schedule as set up in Operation Order 3-41 (appendices #67) and arrived N.A.S., Kodiak. VP-42 left N.A.S., Kodiak, 14 October 1941, about the same time VP-41 was expected. U. S. Pacific Fleet Air Craft Scouting Force tentative employment schedule shows VP-41 and VP-42 under Patrol Wing FOUR and alternating on two- month periods in and out of N.A.S., Kodiak. Operation Order #2-41 from Commander Patrol Wing FOUR to Patrol Squadron based Kodiak of 22 August 1941 (see appendices #68) directs squadrons to con- duct communication exercises and limited off-shore operations to insure efficient joint communications between patrol aircraft and Army and Navy forces in the Alaskan Area. Letter from the Chief of Naval Operations to Commanding Officer, N.A.S., Kodiak, of 24 September 1941 (see appendices #69) advises that on 9 September 1941 the Secretary of Navy and on 15 September 1941 the Secretary of War approved the use of facilities on N.A.S., Kodiak, by the Army. For complete details of the directive (J.B. #312 serial #714 dated 26 August 1941) see appendices #69. Letter from the Commander Aircraft Scouting Force, Pacific Fleet in San Diego, California, to Commander Patrol Wing Four of 29 October 1941 shows changes effected in schedule because of unsatisfactory weather conditions (see appendices #70). Letter from Commander patrol Wing FOUR, N.A.S., Seattle, N-20 Washington, to Commander Patrol Squadron FORTY-ONE of 4 November 1941 (see appendices #71) confirms letter in appendices #70 and lists possibilities of advanced bases in Aleutian Area. Operation Order #1-41 of 10 November 1941 from United States Pacific Fleet Aircraft Scouting Force, patrol Wing FOUR to Air Group Patron FORTY-ONE and Surface Craft stationed at Kodiak (see appendices #72) show training exercises for surface craft, lookouts, and anti-aircraft batteries. Letter from Commanding Officer, N.A.S., Kodiak, to Commandant, THIRTEENTH Naval District of 4 February 1942 gives information on outlying bases for aircraft facilities as installed and contemplated. (see appendices #73). Letter from Commander Alaskan Sector to Commanding Officer, N.A.S., Kodiak, of 11 February 1942 outlines the organization and command for units of Patrol Wing FOUR attached to Alaskan Sector (See appendices #74). Letter from Headquarters 28th Composite Group Office of the Commanding Officer, Fort Richardson, Alaska, to Commanding Officer, ELEVENTH Air Force, Fort Richardson, Alaska, of 24 February 1942 outlines the patrol routes as made by the Army as of 24 February 1942. (See appendices #75). On 18 March 1942 the Chief of Naval Operations in letter, serial NR023912, lists aviation shore facilities at N.A.S., Kodiak, to support the 15,000 plane program, quote "N.A.S., Kodiak, complete facilities for operation and maintenance of four patrol squadrons. Facilities for temporary operation of four Marine or Army Squadrons. Limited overhaul facilities". Letter from Headquarters, Alaskan Defense Command, Office of the Commanding General, Fort Richardson, Alaska, to ADC Liaison Officer to Commander Alaskan N-21 Sector, THIRTEENTH Naval District, N.A.S., Kodiak, of 4 May 1942, outlines tactical control of Army aviation at Kodiak and the employment of Army Air Corps Units at Fort Greely consisting of the 36th Bombardment Squadron (heavy) to be attached to N.A.S., Kodiak. (See appendices #76). Sometime between 8 July 1942 and 13 July 1942, VSID-13 Squadron (later split into two squadrons of VS-49 and VS-70) moved to N.A.S., Kodiak, to give air coverage to all incoming, outgoing vessels and shipping in the vicinity of Kodiak. (See appendices #77 for ID-13 squadron Commanding Officer's Operation Plan 1-(42) of 13 July 1942, giving details of coverage, inspection points, and procedure). VS ID-13 operated as VS-70 at N.A.S., Kodiak, 'till 10 December 1944 when relieved by VS-48 detachment SIX. On 28 August 1942 the Commanding Officer, N.A.S., Kodiak, advised the Commandant, THIRTEENTH Naval District, of the aircraft dispersal points in the vicinity of Kodiak listing the facilities, ammunition, bombs, and amounts of supplies available at that time. (see appendices #78). On 24 September 1942 the Commander Alaskan Sector Northwest Sea Frontier advised Sub Sector Commanders of Squadrons to be assigned to inshore patrol of Alaskan Sector and of the organization and command relations to be main- tained. (See appendices #79). VS-ID-13 remained at N.A.S., Kodiak. No enemy action occurred at Kodiak, but in February Issue 1944 of "Air Trails" pictorial, a Street and Smith Publication, a story, "PBY Saga", by Lenard Engel, takes the log of the PBY Squadron in the Aleutians to Westward and describes the exploits of heroic men and planes at Kiska that rivals the exploits of the almost legendary 8th Air Force. Some of these squadrons were N-22 stationed at N.A.S. and others were serviced here. Captain Leslie Gehres' Patrol Wing FOUR - VP-41, Lieutenant Commander Paul Foley, Jr.; VP-42, Commander J. S. Russel; VP-43, Lieutenant Commander C. B. Jones; and VP-51, Commander Turner Day were the PBY Units that carried the fighting in the Attu and Kiska campaign. VR-2 and VR-5 ------------- Earliest reports from records available, N.A.S., Kodiak, are taken from Air Transport Squadron TWO, Headquarters, N.A.S., Alameda, California, of 24 June 1942, and Operations Order No. 6-42 which details three VR land planes to operate an Air Transport Service in the Pacific Area between N.A.S., Seattle and N.A.S., Kodiak, via Pan American facilities. Three VR land planes were scheduled from Alameda to Seattle and to provide the maximum number of round trips per week between Seattle and Kodiak as weather con- ditions and air upkeep would permit. Planes were to be rotated on this duty from the squadron at N.A.S., Alameda, who were also to provide major upkeep. Aviation fuel and lubrication oil for the operation were to be made avail- able, using Pan American facilities enroute. Pan American communication facilities were also used. Operation Order No. 8-42, of 11 July 1942, from Air Transport Squadron TWO, N.A.S., Alameda, California, changed the Transport Service between N.A.S., Seattle and Kodiak to go via ANNETTE ISLAND AND YAKUTAT. Two round trips of three planes each per week were scheduled as weather conditions and other circumstances permitted. N.A.S., Seattle, was used for air station facilities for routine 30 and 60 hours checks and minor spare parts. Planes and flight N-23 crews were rotated on this duty from squadron at N.A.S., Alameda, who also provided major upkeep on the planes on this basis: Upon completion of two round trips from Seattle to Kodiak, flight crews of the three planes were to embark in squadron planes having the highest engine time or needing major upkeep and were to return to N.A.S., Alameda. Fresh flight crews were to embark in replacement planes and proceed to N.A.S., Seattle, to commence a new cycle of service between Seattle and Kodiak. Army and Navy facilities were to be used as far as practicable in place of Pan American. These Army facilities were located at Annette Island and Yakutat. A list of crusing gear to be carried aboard each VR-2 airplane was listed as: 4 Winter flight gear. 4 Meduim flight jackets. 2 Pair sun glasses. 4 Parachutes. 4 Sleeping bags. 1 First Aid Kit. 1 Very pistol and flares. 4 Life preservers (jackets). 1 Rubber raft. 2 Flashlights and spare bulbs and batteries. 1 Spare set spark plugs. 1 Complete set engine service tools. 100 feet - 2-inch line. 1 Spare oxygen bottle. 1 Chamosis. 1½ Gallons drinking water. 4 Crusing rations for enroute. Small quantity wiping rags. 5 Gallons propeller deicer fluid. 75 Emergency rations. 2 Pistols, .45 caliber, with 100 rounds of ammunition. 1 Axe, medium 1 Set fishing tackle (light) Matches in water-proof container. Assorted spares as radio department might suggest as experience dictates. N-24 On 11 September 1942 Operation Order 8-42, Air Transport Squadron TWO, N.A.S., Alameda, California, cancelled Operation Order 8-42 of 11 July 1942 and called for a maximum service of eight round trips per week between Seattle and Kodiak as weather conditions and other circumstances permit. New route to be between N.A.S., Seattle, and N.A.S., Kodiak, via Prince George, B. C.; Fort St. John, Alberta; Fort Nelson, Alberta; Watson Lake, Yukon Territory; Whitehorse, Yukon Territory; Fairbanks, Alaska; and Anchorage, Alaska. Alternate routes were provided under conditions of favorable weather and if adjustments of cargo weights and gas load such that the maximum normal gross weight of the R4D-1 and R4D-3 of 26,000 pounds would not be exceeded. Planes were to base at N.A.S., Seattle, using air station facilities for routine 30 and 60 hour checks and minor spare parts. Planes and flight crews were rotated on this duty from the squadron at N.A.S., Alameds, to provide major upkeep on planes and rest for crews as follows: First in first out from the roster of ten plane commanders. Normally, upon the completion of two round trips or at the end of eight days, flight crews were to embark in squadron planes having highest engine time or needing major upkeep and were to return to N.A.S., Alameda, as crew. Fresh flight crews were to embark in replacement planes and proceed to N.A.S., Seattle, to commence new cycle of service from Seattle to Kodiak. Army and Navy facilities were to be used as far as practicable. Cruising rations and cruising gear were to be carried in each plane. N-25 VR-5 was commissioned in June, 1943, and took over the duties of VR-2. VR-5 is presently operating in and out of N.A.S., Kodiak. It is estimated that the R4D-3, the two-motored plane, weighing 17000 pounds, plus, co-pilot, radio operator, and orderly at an additional 1000 pounds can haul 5000 net pounds of passengers and freight. It is estimated that throughout the year VR-5 maintained an average of 70,000 pounds of passengers and freight, in and out of N.A.S., Kodiak, per week. Some R5D's a four motored plane commonly called the "Clunk", were operated in connection with the R4D-1 and R4D-3 planes on the regular runs. Pan American Airways being a commercial concern operated such flights of passengers and cargo, in and out of N.A.S., Kodiak, as were necessary in the peak periods, but were not used during the slack periods when the regular Navy transportation could handle the traffic. VS-70 ------ VS-70, as currently operating at N.A.S., Kodiak, originally was known as VS ID-13, which was operating at Sitka, Alaska, 8 July 1942. Sometime prior to 13 July 1942 it moved from Sitka and operated at N.A.S., Kodiak, as its main base. Lieutenant Commander Carsen Hawkins, USN, was the first Commanding Officer. On 1 March 1943 the designation of VS ID-13 was changed and the squadron was split into two units, consisting of VS-49 and VS-70. VS-49 remained at N.A.S., Kodiak, and VS-70 went to Sitka, Alaska, when it was commissioned 2 March 1943. N-26 About 19 May 1943, VS-70 moved to N.A.S., Kodiak, and about the same date VS-49 moved to Dutch Harbor. After VS-49 moved to Dutch Harbor it is be- lieved that part of that squadron spread West on the Chain to Amchitka and Adak and from these detachments, VS-56 was created. On or about 19 May 1943, Lieutenant Commander Hawkins was releived by Lientenant Commander R. E. Ellis, AV(G), USNR, home town, Ketchikan, Alaska. On 3 June 1944 Lieutenant Commander Ellis was releived by Lieutenant Commander Jack Russell Egan, AV(N), USRN, home town, Palos Verdes Estates, California. (See photograph of change of command, appendices #46). VS-70 consists of a twelve plane squadron with three spares. (See photo- graph of VS-70 planes at hangar, appendices #56). OS2U-3 and OS2N-1 type planes were flown. (See appendices #54 and #55 for photograph of VS-70 officers and hangar #3). VS-70 did inshore patrol work, rescue work, convoy escort, and anti- submarine work up to 10 December 1944 when relieved by VS-48, detachment SIX. The OS2U-3 and OS2N-1 type planes are equipped with one forward fixed and one free moving .30 calibre machine guns. They are equipped to carry two depth charges (Mark 17) or two - 325 pound bombs or two - 100 pound bombs. VS-48 ------ Fleet Air Wing FOUR split two of its squadrons, VS-48 and VP-61, into five detachments each. One detachment from each squadron reported to N.A.S., Kodiak, about 1 October 1944. The VP-61 detachment commenced operations at once conducting long range or off shore patrols of about 250 miles, covering two sectors. The Officer-in-Charge was Lieutenant W. L. Perry, A(V)N, USNR. N-27 VS-48 pilots were without planes until 1 December 1944 when 8-SBD-5 aircraft arrived. Two of these aircraft remained and the detachment of VS-48, designated as detachment SIX, went into commission about 5 December 1944, with four pilots, two planes, and twenty enlisted men. The Officer-in-Charge of Detachment SIX is Lieutenant D. H. Olin, A(V)N, USNR, home town, Lewiston, Idaho. On or about 10 December 1944, VS-70 was relieved by VS-48, Detachment SIX, of their inshore patrol duties as VS-70 commenced preparation to ferry their aircraft to the United States. VS-48 covers 2 sectors about 100 miles out. Only 2 - SBD-5 planes are flown, but two more are expected. Each plane carries two .50 calibre fixed machine guns forward and two .30 calibre free guns aft. One 1600 pound bomb is maximum load, but each ship may carry one 1000 pound bomb and two 100 pound bombs at the same time. VP-43 ----- About 10 December 1944, VP-43 relieved VP-61 with detachments at the same bases where VP-61 had formerly been. Three planes of VP-43 are now stationed at N.A.S., Kodiak, conducting the same off-shore patrols as made by VP-61. PBY5-A type planes are flown. Lieutenant W. J. Leary, A(V)C, USNR, home town, Brooklyn, New York. Officer-in-Charge of VP-43 relieved Lt. Perry of VP-61. Patrol Service Unit 4-6 ------------------------ Lieutenant O. D. Davis, S(A), USNR, home town, Danville, California, with three their officers and sixty-six enlisted men arrived N.A.S., Kodiak, about 4 October 1944 from Attu to service and make minor repairs on the patrol planes of VP-61 and VP-43. N-28 AIR BASE HISTORY, UNITED STATES ARMY ------------------------------------ The first Army Air Corps units to arrive at the base arrived in February, 1942, and were the 18th Fighter Squadron, flying P-36's, commanded by Lt. Larson and the 36th Bombardment Squadron, flying B-18's, commanded by Capt. Russel A. Cone. The only Service Command Officer present was Lt. L. Johnson in command of approximately thirty men. The Ordnance Officer was Lt. Franklin V. Lannun. There was no Base Headquarters or Base Commander at this time. All the officers were quartered in the old Marine Barracks while the en- listed men were quartered in small squad shacks or huts adjacent to the officers quarters. When the Air Corps units arrived, two of the present three runways, while not completed, were usable; they were runway #1 - 5000' long and 150' wide - and runway #3 - 6000' long and 150' wide. Both runways are concrete. The taxi strip from #1 runway to the Navy Hangars had not been completed and all Navy PBY's had to be serviced and tied down in the Army area. (See photo- graph of N.A.S. runways and taxi strip to hangar #1 taken 29 October 1944, appendices #44) (Appendices #64, taken 5 May 1944, show runways now equipped with Bartow, approach lights). No revetments had been built at this time and when runway #2 - 5400' long and 150' wide - was made servicable, piles of dirt twenty feet high were placed in the triangle formed by the three runways and used to shelter the aircraft. Upon completion of the permanent revetments along the runways the N-29 piles of dirt were removed. (See photograph of landplane revetments taken 11 May 1942 bearing 300º - at altitude 2,000', appendices #42). In May, 1942, Colonel Cork reported here and assumed command as the first Air Base Commander. The Base Headquarters was established, in what is now nurses quarters on Fort Greely. (Fort Greely, Contonment Two, Kodiak, Alaska, is shown in photograph at bearing 280º, altitude 7000', as of 4 April 1942, appendices #51). Captain John C. Varner, of the Service Command, also re- ported at this time. It was during this month that the officers moved their quarters from the old Marine Barracks to a Navy BOQ. In May of 1942 and advance Echelon Headquarters of the XI Air Force was set up in the Navy Adminsitration Building under the command of Colonel Peterson. It was moved from here to Adak, in May, 1943. June of 1942 brought the attack on Dutch Harbor and the 18th Fighter and 36th Bombardment Squadron moved out. The 406th Bombardment Squadron moved in flying A-29's. The 406th conducted normal squadron duties as well as flew patrols from the island. In August 1942 Lieut. Colonel Cone, (formerly Captain Cone) returned and assumed command of the Air Base. At this time the Air Corps area on Mansfield Ridge was completed and the troops moved in. While many of the officers moved into Quonset Huts on the ridge, some of them still maintained quarters in the Navy BOQ. From December 7, 1941, until the arrival of the 691st Signal AW Co., (Avn), in September, 1942, all Air Warning service had been carried on by the 215th CA AA. The 691st was the first AW Company to be stationed at the N-30 base and to date, the only one. October 28, 1942, marked the arrival of the 401st Base Headquarters and Air Base Squadron. Lt. Colonel George V. Holcomb assumed command of the Base at this time and held command until September, 1943. The first Air Base Personnel Office was established in November, 1942, in what is now Fort Greely Post Office. The two Army hangars were completed and turned over to the Air Corps at this time, but have never been used to house aircraft. One of them is used as an Army gymnasium and the other as a school for the AA units located on the Post. Shortly after the arrival of the 401st, a Canadian Fighter Squadron, known as the 111th, reported in at this base and carried on normal squadron routine as well as conducting patrols. The fighter planes were P-40's and all repairs and adjustments were made by the Navy A&R Department. They were more or less on an alert status and moved out in August, 1943. Captain Donald Coulson assumed command of the Base in September, 1943, and on November 1, 1943, the 401st departed. The Base was then reduced in personnel to a housekeeping detachment consisting of one officer and ten en- listed men of the 399th Base Headquarters & Air Base Squadron. The officer in charge was Lt. Edward W. Melvin, who was in command until November 30, 1943, at which time he was replaced by Lt. James B. Stone. The detachment is primarily concerned with servicing transient aircraft, shipping out items of Air Corps supply material left at the base, and main- taining vehicles on the base. N-31