Richards-Gebaur Memorial Airport, located in Kansas City, Missouri, has a rich history that spans over several decades. As a former United States Air Force base, it has played a significant role in the country's military operations. Here are five interesting facts about Richards-Gebaur Memorial Airport:
Richards-Gebaur Memorial Airport was established in 1941 as a United States Army Air Forces base, and it was initially known as Richards Field. The airport was named after Lieutenant Colonel Willard Francis Richards, a World War I flying ace who died in a training accident in 1918.
During World War II, Richards Field played a crucial role in the war effort, serving as a training base for pilots and aircrews. The airport was also used as a maintenance and repair depot for aircraft. After the war, the airport was renamed Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base in honor of Lieutenant Colonel John Francis Gebaur, a World War II pilot who died in combat.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base was a major hub for the United States Air Force's Strategic Air Command (SAC). The base was home to several bomber and tanker squadrons, including the 710th Strategic Aerospace Division. The airport's strategic location in the Midwest made it an ideal location for SAC operations.
In 1994, Richards-Gebaur Air Force Base was closed as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process. The airport was subsequently transferred to the City of Kansas City, which converted it into a municipal airport. Today, Richards-Gebaur Memorial Airport is a thriving general aviation airport, serving private aircraft owners, flight schools, and businesses.
Richards-Gebaur Memorial Airport has also been the site of several notable events, including the annual Kansas City Air Show. The airport has also hosted various military and civilian aircraft, including the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber and the Boeing 747 jumbo jet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Richards-Gebaur Memorial Airport?
+Richards-Gebaur Memorial Airport was established in 1941 as a United States Army Air Forces base, and it was initially known as Richards Field. The airport was named after Lieutenant Colonel Willard Francis Richards, a World War I flying ace who died in a training accident in 1918.
What was the airport's role during World War II?
+During World War II, Richards Field played a crucial role in the war effort, serving as a training base for pilots and aircrews. The airport was also used as a maintenance and repair depot for aircraft.
What is the airport's current status?
+Today, Richards-Gebaur Memorial Airport is a thriving general aviation airport, serving private aircraft owners, flight schools, and businesses.