About this Unit
Kaneohe Bay Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH), located on the windward side of Oahu, was originally commissioned in 1941 as Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay. The base played a significant role during World War II, notably suffering attacks from Japanese forces just minutes before the infamous strike on Pearl Harbor. Over the decades, it transitioned to Marine Corps control and became a vital center for aviation, training, and operational support in the Pacific. Today, MCBH remains a strategic hub for Marine Corps and Navy operations, supporting deployments and exercises throughout the Indo-Pacific region.
Historical Facts
• Historic Beginnings: Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCBH), commonly known as Kaneohe Bay Marine Base, was originally commissioned as Naval Air Station Kaneohe Bay (NAS Kaneohe Bay) in 1939, serving as a vital outpost for US naval aviation in the Pacific.
• Pearl Harbor Attack: On December 7, 1941, NAS Kaneohe Bay was attacked by Japanese forces just minutes before Pearl Harbor. The base suffered significant damage, and 18 sailors lost their lives—the first American casualties of the attack.
• Home to the PBY Catalina: The base was a major operating location for the PBY Catalina flying boats, which played a crucial role in reconnaissance and anti-submarine missions during World War II.
• Transition to the Marine Corps: In 1952, the base was transferred from the Navy to the Marine Corps, becoming Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay and later Marine Corps Base Hawaii.
• Strategic Location: Positioned on the windward side of Oahu, MCBH serves as a key strategic hub for operations throughout the Pacific region due to its proximity to Asia and the Pacific Rim.
• Environmental Stewardship: The base is home to several endangered species, including the Hawaiian monk seal and green sea turtle, and has active environmental protection programs to preserve the unique local ecosystem.
• Presidential Visits: The base has hosted several US Presidents, including Barack Obama, who frequently visited during Christmas vacations while in office, often meeting with service members and their families.
• Joint Service Operations: MCBH is unique in that it houses not only Marine Corps units but also Navy, Army, and Air Force personnel, promoting joint service cooperation and training.
• Kaneohe Klipper: The base golf course, known as the Kaneohe Klipper, is famous for its stunning oceanfront views and is considered one of the most beautiful military golf courses in the world.
• Modern-Day Missions: Today, MCBH supports a variety of missions, including hosting Marine Aircraft Group 24, 3rd Marine Regiment, and numerous training exercises such as RIMPAC (Rim of the Pacific Exercise), the world’s largest international maritime warfare exercise.
