USMC Air Station El Toro

Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) El Toro was established in 1942 near Irvine, California, to support World War II aviation operations. Throughout its history, it served as a major West Coast base for Marine Corps aviation, hosting fighter, attack, and transport squadrons during conflicts such as the Korean War, Vietnam War, and the Gulf War. El Toro was a critical hub for training, deployment, and logistical support, contributing significantly to USMC air power in the Pacific and beyond. The air station was officially decommissioned in 1999, with its operations relocated to MCAS Miramar, and the site has since been redeveloped for civilian use.