Matagorda Island Air Force Base (abandoned) | military, abandoned / shut down, closed / former military, United States Air Force, former air force base

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 military, abandoned / shut down, closed / former military, United States Air Force, former air force base
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In 1943 a bombing and gunnery range was constructed on the north end of Matagorda Island. It was deactivated after World War II and reactivated for the Strategic Air Command from 1949 until 1975.

The Matagorda Island Bombing Range was controlled at one time or another various Air Force bases in Texas and Louisiana as a satellite base. It had up to five active runways at one time or another and was used for various deployments. However after 1975, the property was turned over to the Dempartment of the Interior as a federal wildlife refuge, and the airfield is now completely abandoned.

Today, the runways and taxiways, although infested with vegetation, are in very good condition. There are several structures, hangars, and buildings of various types in various stages of deterioration. Also there is a usable dock and a small port facility.
Wikipedia article: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matagorda_Island_Air_Force_Base
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Coordinates:   28°19'27"N   96°27'44"W

Comments

  • i was a hunting guide on the Island of matagorda in fall of 1971 for the A.F. have you any info. I have some pictures. turkey49waterfowl@yahoo.com
  • Tom I was stationed on the island 1969-1970 did hunting guide as well, was over fuels, saw your post only 6 years old, planning a trip this year on Harley, going to see whats left, remember boat ride peanuts and beer LOL!
  • I was stationed there from June 1965 to December 1966 as my first base after Basic Training. I was in the Civil Engineering Squadron. Remember those days WELL!
  • Could anyone tell me if they remember anyone with last name Freeman or Walley that would have been at Matagorda Island in the 60's. Please let me know if you remember someone with these last names. Also Henderson or Douglas.
  • Stationed there 1971-1973 as a fire fighter. my first assignment after tech school. GREAT memories.
  • Hi Bob, I was there as well 71-73. Ed Seeberger
  • I was stationed there in 70-71 Time to fish and shrimp Fritz the medic and CC making his jalapeno pizza jeff smith
  • I remember you - didn't we lift weights together for a while??
  • Ron Thomas- I was there in 1973 and 1974 on temporary duty as a switchboard operator
  • I was stationed there right out of Lackland. I was a Heavy Equip. Operator there from June 70 thru April 72. My first Base, I loved it. Met a lot of nice people, and a few dumb asses. Used to love to go to the NCO Club after the lifers went home on the boat, and eat, drink. On week-end rent a jeep for 3 bucks, go to the beach and fish for red fish. I would love to go back and see what is like today, and if possible just walk around the Base, if anything is still there.
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This article was last modified 10 years ago