The base opened in 1942 in Malden, Missouri, and was operated almost continuously as an aviation training facility until its closing in 1960. During that time, more than 7,000 Americans and NATO personnel received pilot training here. Aviation Cadets, newly-graduated officers and European NATO students took their aviation training at Malden Army Airfield. In 1951, the name would be changed to Malden Air Base. For many, graduation meant additional flight training elsewhere and then overseas assignments during World War II, the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam War.
We
salute you all and welcome you back to Malden where, we're sure, you have
many memories! The Veteran's Honor Wall on
the Malden Industrial Park is built in tribute to all men and women who
have, and continue to, serve their country. We invite you to visit the museum which has many photos and momentoes
of the former airfield as well as other military service. We hope you
enjoy this online salute to you - the Aviation Cadets, officers and civilian
employees of Malden Army Airfield!
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The
Malden Army Airfield Preservation Society welcomes your visit! MAAPS honors all
those who serve their country, past and present, and is devoted to the
preservation of Malden Army Airfield. The area now serves as Malden's
Industrial Park and Regional Airport. Our website will bring back memories as
well as keep you informed of our projects and events. It's also our way of
saying "Thank You."
Dedication to duty was understood during
those times. When Uncle Sam called, Americans responded. The construction crews
who dedicated themselves to the job at hand and in only six months cleared the
land and built the barracks, houses, classrooms, support buildings, hangars and
landing fields that would be Malden Army Airfield. The instructors who took
their jobs seriously because it could mean the difference between life and
death for a pilot in combat. The aircraft mechanics that kept the planes in the
air and fixed the things that kept them on the ground. The doctors and nurses
who kept the "boys" healthy and the office personnel that made sure everyone
got paid. And the men who would come forward and volunteer their very lives in
service to their country and enter training to become a pilot. |
Malden
Army Airfield Preservation Society
Malden Industrial Park Office 3077 Mitchell Drive PO Box 411 Malden, Missouri 63863 Phone: 573-276-2279 Email: info@maaps.net |
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