Museum | History and Mission

From the Commanding Officer,
Marine Corps Air Station Miramar

Welcome aboard MCAS Miramar and the Flying Leatherneck Aviation Museum. The museum is the only official Marine Corps aviation museum in the western United States.

The museum’s mission is to preserve, document, and display historical artifacts so that succeeding generations can reflect on the rich legacy of Marine Aviation. Among the many items you will find on display include WW II, Korean War, and Vietnam War vintage aircraft, and many artifacts reflecting the rich traditions of Marine Aviation.

Marine Corps Aviation first arrived at Miramar in December 1940 with the arrival of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. In March 1943 the Marine Corps established Marine Corps Air Depot Camp Kearny, later renamed Marine Corps Air Depot Miramar. In 1945, the Marine Corps artillery training at Camp Elliott was combined with the air depot and designated Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. Today, MCAS Miramar is home of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, the Aviation Combat Element of 1st Marine Expeditionary Force.

We encourage you to enjoy the museum and to participate in all the museum’s activities. We consider it a privilege to preserve the Marine Corps record of aviation accomplishments for the citizens of America’s Finest City, San Diego.

Semper Fidelis,

CHRISTOPHER E. O’CONNOR
Colonel, U.S. Marine Corps
Commanding Officer
Marine Corps Air Station Miramar