Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, located in North Carolina, has a rich history. Its name is derived from Cherry Point Landing, a small settlement that emerged in the early 19th century near a promontory called Cherry Point. The area got its name when a post office was established in 1890.
In 1941, Congress authorized the establishment of Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, allocating funds for its construction on an 8,000-acre tract of land that included swamps, farms, and timberland. It was originally designated as Cunningham Field, Cherry Point, in honor of Marine Corps' first aviator, LtCol. Alfred A. Cunningham. Construction began in November 1941, shortly before the attack on Pearl Harbor. By December 1, 1941, it was officially designated as U.S. Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point.
During World War II, Cherry Point's primary mission was to train Marines for service in the Pacific theater and engage in anti-submarine operations. In subsequent conflicts, including the Korean War, Vietnam War, and Operation Desert Storm, the air station played crucial roles in providing trained aviators and aircrew, maintenance personnel, and support. After the 9/11 attacks, Cherry Point supported combat units involved in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. It served as a training and deployment hub for Marines and aircraft.
Today, Cherry Point remains a significant all-weather jet base, with a vast runway system, ranges, and auxiliary landing fields. It expanded its air traffic control services to cover a large airspace area. The air station is also home to Marine Transport Squadron 1, which operated search and rescue helicopters and now operates transport aircraft.
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*U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Matthew Williams