What Island is the Military Base on in Hawaii?
Hawaii is a state in the United States known for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and strategic location in the Pacific Ocean. The state is home to several military bases, which play a crucial role in the country’s defense and national security. Among the many islands that make up the state of Hawaii, one island stands out as the location of the majority of the military bases: Oahu.
Oahu: The Hub of Military Activity
Oahu is the third-largest island in Hawaii and is home to the state’s capital, Honolulu. It is also the location of the majority of the state’s military bases, including the famous Pearl Harbor. Pearl Harbor is a United States Navy base that is located on the southern coast of Oahu and is one of the most historic and iconic military bases in the world.
Pearl Harbor: A Brief History
Pearl Harbor is a lagoon harbor that was attacked by the Japanese on December 7, 1941, leading to the United States’ entry into World War II. The attack, which killed over 2,400 Americans, was a surprise military strike that damaged or destroyed numerous ships and aircraft, including the USS Arizona, which sank with the loss of over 1,100 lives.
Military Bases on Oahu
In addition to Pearl Harbor, Oahu is home to several other military bases, including:
- Hickam Air Force Base: A United States Air Force base that is located adjacent to Pearl Harbor and is home to the 15th Wing, which is responsible for the maintenance and operation of Air Force aircraft.
- Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam: A joint military base that is shared by the United States Navy and Air Force and is home to over 100,000 military personnel and civilians.
- Schofield Barracks: A United States Army base that is located in the central part of Oahu and is home to the 25th Infantry Division, which is one of the most decorated divisions in the US Army.
- Fort Shafter: A United States Army base that is located in the central part of Oahu and is home to the US Army Pacific, which is responsible for the defense of the Pacific region.
Other Islands with Military Bases
While Oahu is home to the majority of the military bases in Hawaii, other islands in the state also have military installations. These include:
- Maui: Home to the Kahului Army Depot, which is a United States Army base that is responsible for the storage and maintenance of military equipment and supplies.
- Kauai: Home to the Pacific Missile Range Facility, which is a United States Navy base that is responsible for the testing and evaluation of military missiles and other weapons systems.
- Hawaii Island: Home to the Pohakuloa Training Area, which is a United States Army base that is used for military training and exercises.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Oahu is the island in Hawaii that is home to the majority of the state’s military bases, including Pearl Harbor, Hickam Air Force Base, and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. These bases play a crucial role in the country’s defense and national security, and are an important part of the state’s economy and culture. While other islands in Hawaii also have military installations, Oahu is the hub of military activity in the state.
